Conditions · Sciatica
Sciatica is a symptom. The evaluation looks for the cause.
Pain, burning, numbness or tingling from the low back or buttock down the leg. A disc pressing on a nerve root is one common cause; there are others, and they are treated differently.
What it can feel like
Usually one leg. Often worse sitting, driving, or standing up from a chair. It can reach the calf or foot. Sometimes the back barely hurts and the leg is the whole problem.
How Dr. Lee assesses it
Nerve tension tests, reflexes and strength in the leg, and a look at your MRI to see where the problem is and whether a disc is the cause.
Where non-surgical decompression fits
Sciatica that comes from a disc and has not settled with rest, therapy or medication.
★★★★★
“This practice reduced my daily pain level from 7 out of 10 to a 1 out of 10 and some days 0 out of 10.”
My back pain and sciatica were severe. Over 3 years the pain got worse and worse. I tried PT, pills, exercise and I felt little relief.
Minna
Google review
Questions
Questions about sciatica
Why does my leg hurt more than my back?
The sciatic nerve starts in the low back and runs down the leg. When a nerve root is pressed in the low back, the pain is often felt along the nerve, in the buttock, thigh, calf or foot.
How long does sciatica last?
Many flare-ups settle within weeks. When the leg pain lasts for months or keeps returning, it is worth finding out what is pressing on the nerve.
What can cause sciatica besides a disc?
A tight muscle deep in the buttock, or a joint problem in the low back or pelvis, can cause similar leg pain. Dr. Lee’s exam and your MRI show which one it is.
What if both legs hurt?
Pain in both legs, or leg pain that builds as you walk and eases when you sit, can point to spinal stenosis instead.
Next step
Find out what is behind the leg pain.
Bring your MRI if you have one.
Apply online. The office reviews your application and contacts you about the next step.
Prime Spine Wellness
(301) 272-2050
4833 Rugby Avenue, Suite 402, Bethesda, MD 20814
EMAIL: PRIMESPINEWELLNESS@GMAIL.COM
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