+ Sciatica | Garden State Medical Center
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Sciatica

Conditions

At Garden State Medical Center, we specialize in treating a wide range of conditions that affect the spine and musculoskeletal system, including sciatica. If you’re experiencing pain that radiates from your lower back down through your legs, you might be suffering from sciatica. Our team of experts in interventional pain management and orthopedics is here to provide effective, personalized treatments to relieve your discomfort and improve your quality of life.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips, buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica is not a condition itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue, often caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve.

Symptoms of Sciatica

The symptoms of sciatica can vary but often include:

  • Pain in the lower back: This may be sharp or burning.
  • Pain radiating down one leg: Often felt as a shooting pain or a deep ache.
  • Numbness or tingling: Especially in the leg, foot, or toes.
  • Weakness: Difficulty moving or controlling the affected leg.
  • Worsening of pain: With sitting, standing, or certain movements.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica is commonly caused by conditions that lead to compression of the sciatic nerve, including:

  • Herniated or Bulging Disc: A slipped or bulging disc in the spine can press on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear of spinal discs can lead to nerve irritation.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can cause pressure on the nerve roots.
  • Spondylolisthesis: When a vertebra slips out of place, it may pinch the sciatic nerve.
  • Muscle Spasms: Tight muscles, especially in the lower back or hips, can compress the sciatic nerve.

Diagnosis of Sciatica

Diagnosing sciatica typically involves:

  • Physical Examination: To assess reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation.
  • Medical History Review: To identify risk factors and triggers for pain.
  • Imaging Tests: An MRI or CT scan may be ordered to visualize the spine and detect any underlying issues that could be causing nerve compression.

Treatment Options for Sciatica

At Garden State Medical Center, we offer a variety of treatment options to manage and relieve sciatica pain, including:

Non-Surgical Treatment

  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles and improve posture.
  • Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation and provide long-lasting pain relief.
  • Chiropractic Care: For spinal alignment and pressure relief.

Surgical Treatment: In cases where conservative treatments do not alleviate pain, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options may include:

  • Discectomy: Removal of the herniated disc material pressing on the nerve.
  • Laminectomy: Removal of a portion of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the nerve.

Why Choose Garden State Medical Center?

As specialists in interventional pain management and orthopedics, we understand the impact sciatica can have on your daily life. At Garden State Medical Center, we focus on providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our experienced team will guide you through the treatment options, helping you make informed decisions to relieve your pain and restore your mobility.

Get Relief from Sciatica Today

Don’t let sciatica disrupt your life any longer. If you’re in New Jersey and experiencing symptoms of sciatica, contact Garden State Medical Center today to schedule a consultation. Our team is dedicated to finding the right solution for you, whether through non-surgical treatments or advanced procedures.