Sciatica can cause sharp and shooting pain, numbness, and tingling from your buttock to your foot. For effective relief from discomfort caused by sciatica, visit Southern Pain Specialists in Birmingham, Alabama. Pain management specialist Kenneth Varley, MD, offers targeted and reliable treatments to relieve your sciatica symptoms and help you get back to your normal routine. To schedule a visit, call the office or book online today.
Sciatica is a symptom resulting from inflammation or irritation of the spinal nerve roots in your lower back which forms the sciatic nerve. Direct irritation of the sciatic nerve after it leaves the spine can also occur. The sciatic nerve travels from the lower part of your spine through your buttocks to the back of your thighs and calves before ending at your feet. It’s located on both sides of your body, though symptoms are typically only felt on one side.
Sciatica symptoms may vary depending on the cause of nerve irritation or compression, as well as your daily activities. Possible symptoms of sciatica include:
Movements that put tension on your sciatic nerve, such as bending forward to tie your shoes, can cause an increase in symptoms. Symptoms may resolve with rest or certain positions, such as lying flat on your back.
there are a number of factors that must be ruled out before diagnosing your condition. Common causes of back and leg pain which may cause of mimic sciatica include:
Dr. Kenneth Varley discusses your symptoms with you to understand the severity of your condition before performing a thorough physical exam.
To diagnose sciatica, Dr. Varley begins with a physical exam and diagnostic testing. He may recommend imaging, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or CAT scan. Advanced diagnostic testing like diagnostic nerve blocks or joint injections may help confirm the diagnosis. These tests help Dr. Varley determine where your nerve pain is coming from and what conditions or anatomical structures are compressing or irritating your sciatic nerve.
Based on your diagnosis and the severity of your condition, Dr. Varley discusses which treatment options are best for you. He may recommend one or more of the following options, depending on your specific case:
All treatment plans are personalized based on your needs and lifestyle to provide effective pain relief.
To schedule an exam for your sciatica symptoms, call the Southern Pain Specialists office or book online now.
