Understanding Sciatica and How to Find Relief
Sciatica can be a sudden, sharp pain shooting down your leg, or a lingering ache that disrupts your daily life. But what exactly is sciatica, and why does it happen?
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to symptoms—including pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness—that travel along the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down through each leg. Sciatica itself is not a diagnosis, but a sign of an underlying spine condition, such as:
Herniated or bulging discs
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
Bone spurs
Symptoms to Watch For
Sciatica affects everyone differently, but common signs include:
- Sharp, burning, or electric-shock-like pain in the leg
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens when sitting, standing, or walking for long periods
- Difficulty moving your leg or foot
How Sciatica is Diagnosed
A thorough evaluation by a spine specialist is key. Dr. Edward Jung in Seattle, WA, uses imaging tests like MRIs or X-rays along with a detailed physical exam to determine the cause of your sciatica. Accurate diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Most sciatica cases improve with conservative care, but treatment is tailored to your specific condition and pain level:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve mobility and strengthen supporting muscles
- Medication: Anti-inflammatories or pain relief medications
- Spinal Injections: Targeted injections to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Procedures like lumbar microdiscectomy or microdecompression for persistent pain
Finding Relief in Seattle, WA
If sciatica pain is affecting your daily life, board-certified spine surgeon Edward Jung, MD, MS can help. Our spine care clinic serves patients from Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, and Redmond, providing comprehensive treatment plans to relieve leg and back pain. Call (206) 860-5578 to schedule a consultation today, or contact our office through our secure online form.