Sciatica

Sciatica pain is quite distinctive, arrowing down one leg like an electric shock from your lower back. If you have symptoms of sciatica, Wadid Zaky, MD, of Dr. Zaky Spine, Pain & Joint Center in Berlin, Maryland, can help. Dr. Zaky has many years of experience assisting patients in overcoming nerve pain from conditions like sciatica. To find out how he can relieve your sciatica pain, call Dr. Zaky Spine, Pain & Joint Center today or book an appointment online.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a common type of chronic pain condition that originates in the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the longest in your body, extending from your lower spine to your feet.

If the sciatic nerve comes under pressure, sciatica is often the result, causing shooting pain that typically travels through your hip or buttock and down one leg.

In addition to pain, you're likely to experience symptoms like weakness and tingling sensations in the affected leg. The pain and other symptoms may reach your foot if the entire nerve is affected.

Sciatica pain is generally worse if you've been sitting down for a long time, as well as when you cough or sneeze.

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when something in your spine presses on or pinches the sciatic nerve. The most likely causes of sciatica are:

• Herniated discs
• Arthritis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Bone spurs on the vertebrae
• Spinal tumors
• Traumatic injuries

You're more likely to get sciatica when you're pregnant or if you're obese due to the increased risk of sciatic nerve compression.

How is sciatica diagnosed?

To diagnose the cause of your symptoms, Dr. Zaky performs a physical exam, discusses the symptoms you're experiencing, and reviews your medical history. In addition, he might order diagnostic tests, such as:

• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• CT myelogram
• Electromyogram (EMG)
• Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests

These diagnostic tests provide in-depth information about the structure of your spine and the function of your sciatic nerve. This helps Dr. Zaky confirm your diagnosis and evaluate the extent of any damage.

What treatments can help with sciatica?

Most people suffering from sciatica recover using nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medication.

If you aren't experiencing a reduction of symptoms after your initial course of treatment, Dr. Zaky can use other methods. These include platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to promote tissue regeneration and epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation.

To find lasting relief from the painful symptoms of sciatica, call Dr. Zaky Spine, Pain & Joint Center and schedule a consultation, or use the online form to book an appointment today.