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Sciatica is typically one-sided pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, radiating from the lower back down the buttock and leg.

Symptoms

In most cases, sciatica only affects one side of the body.

The most common symptoms include:

  • Pain that radiates down one leg
  • One-sided muscle weakness and numbness
  • Mild, excruciating, aching, or sharp sensation

What’s Causing Your Sciatica?

Sciatica develops when an area of the nerve becomes pinched.

This can be due to a number of factors, including:

  • Spinal stenosis
  • Bone spurs
  • Damage from diabetes (rare)
  • Herniated disc
  • Tumor (rare)

Did You Know?

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body. It branches out from the lower back and extends down the hips, buttocks, and legs. It is responsible for connecting the spinal cord with the muscles in the legs and feet.

Speak With A Specialist

Visit one of our New York locations.

The Diagnosis: What To Expect?

Step 1: Exam
The first step in diagnosing the cause of your sciatica is a full examination. During this process, we will test for muscle strength and reflexes, as well as assess movements that trigger your sciatica in Long Island.
Step 2: Imaging tests
If we suspect a herniated disc or bone spur, we will order an x-ray to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, an MRI or CT scan may also be required to visualize the soft tissues in the area.

Our Treatment Approach

Treatment for sciatica in Long Island is complex and depends on the underlying cause of your pain.

In most cases, your treatment will involve a custom blend of the following approaches:

  • Physical therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Pain medication
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Steroid injections
  • Surgery
  • Acupuncture
  • Chiropractic care
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Sciatica FAQ

Sciatica is often a temporary condition that improves with conservative treatment such as rest, physical therapy, and pain management. In some cases, however, chronic or severe sciatica may require more aggressive treatment options, including surgery.

While sciatica cannot always be prevented, there are steps individuals can take to reduce their risk, such as maintaining good posture, practicing proper lifting techniques, staying physically active to strengthen the core muscles, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing in one position.

Yes, specific exercises and stretches designed to strengthen the back and core muscles, improve flexibility, and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve can help alleviate sciatica symptoms and prevent future flare-ups. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program.

It's advisable to see a doctor if you experience persistent or severe sciatica symptoms, such as intense pain, numbness or weakness in the leg or foot, difficulty controlling bladder or bowel function, or if your symptoms worsen despite conservative treatment measures.

Pregnancy can increase the risk of developing sciatica due to changes in posture, weight distribution, and hormonal fluctuations that can affect the spine and nerves. Sciatica during pregnancy often resolves after childbirth but may require management during pregnancy to alleviate symptoms.

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Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about Long Island Spine Specialists – and to discover how we can relieve your pain and help you find an improved quality of life – please contact our office today and schedule a consultation.
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(631) 837-2359

Contact Us for An Expert Consultation

Find us near you and start your journey to a pain-free life.

Spine Specialist

Riverhead

887 Old Country Road,
Suite D
Riverhead, NY 11901

Phone: (631) 837-2359
Fax: (631) 462-2240

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Commack

763 Larkfield Rd, Second
Floor
Commack, NY, 11725

Phone: (631) 837-2359
Fax: (631) 462-2240

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West Islip

400 Montauk Highway,
Suite 102
West Islip, NY 11795

Phone: (631) 837-2359
Fax: (631) 462-2240

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West Hempstead

565 Hempstead Turnpike
West Hempstead, NY
11552

Phone: (631) 837-2359
Fax: (631) 462-2240

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