Sciatica and How to Treat | Long Island Spine Specialists

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.

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 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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Practice Policy Update Regarding COVID-19

Dear Patients:

Our patients, employees and family are our top priority at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

We ask you to not visit any of our locations if you have symptoms such as fever, sneezing, coughing and possible shortness of breath.

Please cancel your appointment and re-schedule once you are feeling better and are no longer suffering with symptoms.

Only non-symptomatic patients will be seen. No exceptions.

Accompanying family members – including children – are asked to remain in the waiting area and will not be allowed to enter the exam rooms.

During this time of high concern regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) we are taking extra precautions to maintain the highest possible standards of safety and cleanliness. Please be advised that we are carefully following recommendations from both the CDC and WHO and are here to help guide you through this time if needed.

Some steps we are taking to keeping safe:

We know how important cleanliness is and always maintain the highest standards of cleanliness. To further offer you peace of mind, we have increased the frequency of the cleaning of our office.

Rest assured that hand washing is strictly followed. Hand sanitizer is available to all staff and patients.

Additionally, if you have recently traveled to a country with high rates of the coronavirus or have been on a cruise, please reschedule your visit for at least 14 days from your return date. We will gladly accommodate your needs to reschedule. At that time, a telehealth interface can be arranged if necessary.

Find up-to-date and accurate information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and feel free to reach out with questions.

- Your team at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

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.

Sciatica