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Overview:

Sciatica Pain Treatment Specialists in Austin, TX

SCIATICA OR SCIATICA PAIN REFERS TO BACK PAIN AND LEG PAIN EXPERIENCED AS A RESULT OF PINCHING OR IRRITATION IN THE SCIATIC NERVE.

While sciatica pain may be related to the back, it is different from the usual back pain – originating with the sciatic nerves and spreading to a vast area. The sciatic nerves are the largest in the human body, extending from the lower portion of the spinal cord down the thighs to the soles and toes of the feet. So, the pain can be experienced anywhere along the branches of the sciatic nerves — buttocks, lower back, thigh, leg, calf, or feet — and is not limited to the lower back alone.

Those with acute or chronic lower back pain are more prone to developing sciatica, with anywhere between 5 to 10% of them developing sciatica pain. It has been estimated that at least 40% of people develop it at some point in their lives, with the prevalence increasing post the age of 45.

Searching for a “sciatica specialist near me” in Austin? Find relief from sciatica pain with our specialized treatment at Advanced Pain Care! Book your consultation today!

Symptoms of Sciatica Nerve Pain

The doctors specializing in sciatica nerve pain at Advanced Pain Care, define the following common signs:

  • Pain ranges in intensity from mild aches to sharp, burning, and even electrifying sensations
  • Constant or intermittent sensations of pain felt more severely in the leg than in the back
  • Sensations of numbness or tingling in the affected side
  • Muscle weakness in the affected side
  • Sensations of heaviness in the affected leg
  • Increased pain in specific postures and movements
  • Loss of function in legs in extreme and rare cases
  • Loss of bladder/bowel movement in extreme and rare cases

The symptoms of sciatica are typically manifested when specific nerve roots are affected. For example, the following symptoms may be experienced if the compression is on the L4 nerve root:

  • Pain in the thigh, hip, and inner parts of the knee and calves
  • Loss of sensation in these regions
  • Loss of reflexes in the knee

The following symptoms may be experienced if the compression is on the L4 nerve root:

  • Pain in the outer part of the leg and thigh
  • Loss of sensation in the toes
  • Difficulty moving the ankle

The following symptoms may be experienced if the compression is on the S1 nerve root:

  • Loss of reflexes in the ankle
  • Pain in the back of the calves, buttocks, and in the side of the feet
  • Difficulty moving the heel

Diagnosis & Treatment of Sciatica Pain

The effectiveness of the sciatica pain treatment depends on the diagnosis of your overall medical condition. To perform an accurate diagnosis, physicians and doctors at Advanced Pain Care assess the pain patterns using the following approach:

  1. Medical history — The physician may review the:
    • Onset of pain
    • Onset of other symptoms
    • Type and duration of the pain
    • Recent trauma or injuries
  1. Physical examination — During a physical examination, the physician may check for the following parameters:
    • Localized pain experienced in specific regions along the nerve path
    • Response to external stimuli
    • Response to specific movements such as walking on heels or toes, or transitioning between movements and postures
  1. Clinical tests — In order to check for sciatic nerve pain, the physician may conduct the following clinical tests:
    • Slump test — This involves the patient bending forward at the hip to check if the pain is manifested in this position.
    • Straight leg raise test
    • These tests are done to isolate mechanical causes leading to sciatica and cannot confirm any other causes such as chemical irritation.
  1. Diagnostic tests — Medical imaging tests help diagnose the cause of the pain especially in chronic cases. They also help during the course of minimally invasive and surgical procedures as a part of the sciatic nerve pain treatment plan. Some of the commonly used diagnostic tests are as follows:
    • Diagnostic nerve block injections
    • Electromyography
    • CT scans
    • MRIs
    • Selective nerve root blocks
    • Discogram
    • X-ray

Sciatic Nerve Pain Relief

Once our physician arrives at the diagnosis, a structured plan for sciatica treatment is created, which can include simple self-care treatments, non-surgical treatments, and surgical procedures. The treatment for sciatica is primarily focused on treating the underlying causes of the pain and managing the pain itself. The treatment plan includes:

  1. Self-care treatments typically include rest; the use of ice packs for the first few days followed by the use of hot packs; medications (prescription and non-prescription) to reduce pain and inflammation; and simple stretching exercises as recommended by the physician.
  2. Non-surgical treatments at Advanced Pain Care include the following:
  • Diagnostic nerve block injections
  • Electromyography
  • CT scans
  • MRIs
  • Selective nerve root blocks
  • Discogram

Common Causes of Sciatica Pain

It is crucial to understand that not all types of lower back pain or radiating pain in the lower part of the body can be categorized as sciatica pain. Sciatica refers only to lower back pain or radiating pain that originates from the sciatic nerves.

Sciatica most commonly occurs when an underlying medical condition causes pain, inflammation, or numbness in the affected regions. Our sciatica pain specialists list out some of the most common medical conditions causing pinching or irritation of the sciatica nerve:

Several of these medical conditions develop as a result of a trauma or an injury. Some may also be a result of physical stress injuries; for example, herniated discs could occur due to weightlifting or prolonged manual labor. It has been estimated that approximately 90% of all sciatica conditions are caused by lumbar herniated discs with nerve root compression. A herniated disc can compress nerves directly or by leaking acidic substances, leading to inflammation near the sciatic nerve.

There are some rare instances where sciatica can occur due to tumors, blood clots, infections, the formation of scar tissue, spinal tuberculosis, or fractures in the spine. An estimated 1% of women also experience sciatica at some time during their pregnancies. In some cases, the cause of sciatica can be attributed to a post-surgical complication.

Types of Sciatica

Sciatica back pain (or sciatica leg pain) can be classified into different types based on the duration and affected regions. It can be as follows:

  • Acute sciatica — Sudden, persistent pain that lasts anywhere between 4 to 8 weeks.
  • Chronic sciatica — Persistent sciatic nerve pain lasts over 8 weeks.
  • Alternating sciatica — Pain affecting both legs alternatively. This type of sciatica is extremely rare and is caused primarily by conditions such as sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
  • Bilateral sciatica — Pain affecting both legs simultaneously. This type of sciatica is rare and is caused primarily by conditions such as cauda equina syndrome.

Your sciatica pain might fall under any of these categories, depending on your medical condition. Our specialists can help you understand your pain type along with the most appropriate treatment plan.

Patient Testimonial

Everyone is very professional, caring, and concerned about your health. Tim takes time to explain all of my health issues. The front desk staff makes an awesome impression on the entire practice. I take my hat off to Rebecca, Marissa B., Tim, and Julia. I’m sure Dr. Malon would be happy and satisfied with this staff. They continue to give Dr. Malon a good reputation.

— Patricia Hosey

I have been going to Advanced Pain Care for several years to deal with herniated disc pain. I have always received great care. The doctors and PAs provide all of the options and focus on having a holistic approach – from exercise and massage to medications and epidurals. I am so happy with my team at the Central Austin location: Kolhbe and Priscilla are excellent and the office staff is always courteous and efficient.

— Michelle Breyer

When Should You See Our Doctor for Sciatica Pain?

Sciatica in its milder form usually goes away on its own with simple self-care routines and painkillers. However, if you have been experiencing persistent and severe pain for over a week with the loss of control over body functions, you should immediately consult a pain care physician. To receive the best sciatica pain treatment, book an urgent appointment with one of our doctors. Call Advanced Pain Care at 512-244-4272.

Risk Factors & Complications That Can Arise Due to Sciatica Pain

Sciatica nerve pain can occur due to a host of risk factors ranging from aging to obesity. The most common risk factors associated with the condition are as follows:

  • Age-related changes in the spine such as bone spurs and degeneration of discs
  • Prolonged exposure to heavy activities and sports
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Prolonged manual labor
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Smoking

Sciatica pain, even in a more acute manifestation, can be completely treated. However, when there is a lack of timely medical intervention, it can lead to nerve damage and loss of functions in the affected regions. Some of the possible complications that can arise include:

  • Inability to move specific parts of the affected regions
  • Loss of function in affected regions
  • Loss of bowel/bladder control
  • Chronic pain
  • Loss of feeling in the affected regions
  • Permanent nerve damage
  • Weakness in the legs

Is surgery required for sciatica pain?

Surgery for sciatic nerve pain relief is considered an option only if none of the other treatments have helped in relieving the pain and you are also experiencing the following signs:

  • Progressively worsening pain
  • Severe muscle weakness in the lower body
  • Loss of body functions such as bowel and bladder control.

It is usually considered based on the progression of the symptoms in each specific case. However, if the diagnosis for the underlying cause proves to be one among the following, the doctors at Advanced Pain Care will advise an emergency surgery:

  • Cauda equina syndrome
  • Bilateral sciatica
  • Non-responsive infection in the pelvic region
  • Tumors in the lumbar region
  • Collection of fluid in the lumbar region
  • Fractures in the lumbar spine

This surgery will be performed to remove the pressure on the nerves and stabilize the spine. Some of the commonly advised surgical options include –

  1. Microdiscectomy to remove fragments of a herniated disc that are pressing on the nerves
  2. Laminectomy to remove a part of the vertebral bone that is laying pressure on the sciatic nerve
  3. Foraminotomy to enlarge the neuroforamen and give more room to the nerve roots
  4. Facetectomy to relieve pressure on nerves caused by degenerated facet joints

Post-surgery recovery is case-specific; however, the time taken to recover is usually 6 weeks to 3 months. Before opting for a surgical procedure, talk to your surgeon at Advanced Pain Care to understand the entire recovery process as well as the possible risks involved.

Precautions You Can Take To Prevent Sciatica Pain

As sciatica nerve pain is caused due to varied medical conditions, prevention may not always be possible. There are some basic steps that you can take to protect your back from any possible injury, trauma, or irritation that can lead to sciatica. These include:

Regular exercise

Proper ergonomics, body mechanics, and posture

Good lifestyle and nutrition habits

Get Relief For Your Sciatica With Our Doctors in Austin, TX

Sciatica can be an extremely painful condition and limit the patient’s ability to perform even the most routine of daily tasks. Fortunately, managing and treating sciatica pain is easily achievable. So, if you’re looking for a trusted “sciatica pain doctor near me”, Advanced Pain Care is here to help you. 

For more than 20 years, Dr. Malone and our compassionate team have been devoted to easing the pain of numerous patients. With our pain management centers in 13 locations and three surgery centers across Texas, we’re here to support patients throughout the state. Experience the best sciatica pain treatment and get back to living your best life. Schedule your appointment today with our pain management specialist or call 512-244-4272 to take the first step towards a life with less pain.

FAQS

Q: How do You relieve sciatic nerve pain?

A: Most cases of sciatic nerve pain can be treated with rest, the application of ice and hot packs, as well as simple stretching exercises, to relieve the pressure on the nerves. In case of more acute or chronic pain, our pain management specialists at Advanced Pain Care can provide you with a comprehensive plan for sciatica pain treatment.

Q: How long will sciatica take to heal?

A: Sciatica pain can be acute or chronic. In acute pain cases, the right treatment can give you relief in 4 to 8 weeks. However, in certain medical conditions, the pain can prove to be a chronic one and even last from 2 months up to 2 years. Our specialists can guide you toward the best options for sciatic nerve pain relief.

Q: What causes sciatica to flare up?

A: Sitting for prolonged periods has been known to cause sciatica to flare up. Additionally, wrong postures and body mechanics, prolonged manual labor, and obesity are also said to cause sciatica to flare up. Consult one of our sciatica nerve pain doctors to understand the exact cause and treatment for your pain.

Q: Is walking good for sciatic nerve pain?

A: Walking is considered to be very effective when it comes to relieving sciatica pain. Regular walking helps to reduce inflammation and also releases pain-fighting endorphins into the bloodstream. However, if you do not adhere to proper body mechanics while walking – incorrect posture and walking patterns – it can lead to further pressure on the sciatica nerves, making the pain even worse. We can help you learn about the right physical activities related to the treatment and management of sciatica nerve pain.

Q: Can physical therapy or chiropractic care help with sciatica?

A: Yes, physical therapy strengthens muscles and improves flexibility. And, chiropractic adjustments can reduce nerve irritation and improve spinal alignment, easing the pain. However, the results may vary, so it’s best to talk to experienced doctors to find the right sciatica pain treatment for you.

Sciatica Pain Treatment

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Are You Experiencing Pain?

If you are experiencing any back pain or stiffness, call Advanced Pain Care at 512-244-4272 to schedule an appointment with one of our pain care and management specialists.

We have a range of pain management treatment options available right from surgical interventions to non-invasive and minimally invasive treatment options. Our team will work with you to develop a pain management plan based on the severity of your condition.