Overview
Understanding sciatica
Integrity Pain & Wellness provides sciatica evaluation and treatment at its Arizona clinics. Sciatica is pain radiating along the sciatic nerve from the lower back through the hip and down the leg. The cause and appropriate treatment depend on the examination and clinical history.
Sciatica is a symptom pattern rather than a single diagnosis. A herniated disc, spinal narrowing, or another condition can irritate a nerve root that contributes to the sciatic nerve.
Leg symptoms do not always come from the spine. Hip, vascular, peripheral nerve, and other problems can overlap, so the examination and history matter before treatment is discussed.
Useful context
What people may notice
- Burning, electric, aching, or sharp pain traveling down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the buttock, leg, or foot
- Symptoms that change with sitting, standing, coughing, or spine movement
- Weakness in part of the leg or foot when a motor nerve is affected
At the clinic
How evaluation works
- 01
Map where symptoms begin and how far they travel.
- 02
Check strength, sensation, reflexes, movement, and gait when appropriate.
- 03
Review prior imaging and decide whether new imaging would change the plan.
- 04
Consider electrodiagnostic testing when the source or severity of nerve dysfunction remains unclear.
References
Sources and further reading
These references provide general education. They do not replace advice from a clinician who knows your health history.
Questions and answers
Sciatica FAQs
Can sciatica be cured without surgery?
Yes. Many sciatica cases improve with non-surgical treatment. Epidural steroid injections can reduce inflammation around the sciatic nerve. The response varies by person.
What does sciatica feel like?
Sciatica typically causes sharp, shooting, or burning pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and radiates down one leg, sometimes reaching the foot. It may also cause tingling, numbness, or leg weakness.
How long does sciatica last?
The course varies. Persistent or worsening sciatica typically requires specialist evaluation and may be treated with epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks.