What is sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve — the large nerve that runs from your lower back through your buttock and down the back of each leg. It's not a diagnosis on its own but a symptom of an underlying problem irritating or compressing a nerve root in the lower spine. Because it's a symptom, the key to lasting relief is finding and treating what's actually pressing on the nerve.
Symptoms of sciatica
- Radiating pain from the lower back or buttock down the back of one leg — sharp, burning, or electric in quality.
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot.
- Weakness in the leg or foot.
- Pain that worsens with sitting, standing up, coughing, or sneezing.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica usually comes from a pinched nerve root in the lumbar spine. The most common culprits are a herniated disc and spinal stenosis; bone spurs and other spinal changes can also be responsible. Pinpointing the specific level and cause is what allows treatment to be targeted rather than guesswork.
How we diagnose sciatica
We take a careful history and perform an exam that tests your strength, reflexes, and sensation to identify which nerve root is involved. When appropriate, MRI shows the discs and nerves in detail, and nerve studies (EMG/nerve conduction) can help confirm nerve involvement. Our specialists connect the findings to your symptoms so the treatment addresses the true source.
Sciatica treatment options
- Physical therapy & targeted exercises to relieve pressure and stabilize the spine.
- Medications to control pain and inflammation.
- Epidural steroid injections and other image-guided procedures through our pain management team.
- Minimally invasive spine surgery to relieve the nerve compression when symptoms are severe or persistent.
Most people improve without surgery. We begin with conservative care and reserve procedures for cases that need them.
Request an appointment or call (717) 358-0800 to find out what's causing your sciatica.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What does sciatica feel like?
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve — from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of one leg. It can feel sharp, burning, or electric, and may come with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot. It usually affects one side.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is a symptom of a compressed or irritated nerve root in the lower back. The most common causes are a herniated disc and spinal stenosis; bone spurs and, less often, other conditions can also be responsible. Identifying the underlying cause is key to effective treatment.
How long does sciatica last?
Many episodes of sciatica improve within a few weeks with conservative care. Pain that is severe, keeps returning, or is accompanied by weakness should be evaluated by a specialist, as targeted treatment can speed relief and prevent recurrence.
When is sciatica an emergency?
Seek emergency care if you develop loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or sudden, severe leg weakness. Otherwise, call Argires Specialty Group at (717) 358-0800 to schedule an evaluation in Lancaster, PA.
Stop guessing about your leg pain
Let our spine and pain team identify the source of your sciatica and build a plan to relieve it. Schedule an evaluation today.
Request an Appointment Call (717) 358-0800