Sciatica

Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)

Diagnosis, Treatment & Recovery

Sciatica is characterized by pain in the back or leg due to pressure on the sciatic nerve. Pain can vary in degree, beginning in the low back or hip and often extending to the foot. Sciatica is exaggerated by sitting and may also arise when the body jerks suddenly—as during coughing, sneezing or laughing. Though sciatica can heal on its own, treatments like bed rest, heat therapy, physical therapy, epidurals, acupuncture, pain medications or massage are used to expedite healing and relieve pain.

Surgical Treatment for Sciatica

Sciatica rarely requires surgical treatment. However, if conservative treatments have no effect on the inflamed nerve, a slipped or herniated disc may be to blame. In this case, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged spine and eliminate pain and complications from long-term nerve pressure.

Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine Treatment Sciatica Specialists

PBSSM’s team of skilled neurosurgeons have nearly two decades of experience diagnosing and treating sciatica pain. While sciatica can heal without treatment, the process is usually long and painful—and may lead to permanent neurological damage. Sciatica’s symptoms may also be confused with other, more serious neurological disorders like lumbar spinal stenosis. To protect against misdiagnoses and the pain of living with sciatica, contact our NJ and PA surgeons and sports medicine specialists. Reach a patient advocate now: 609.921.9001 in New Jersey or 215.741.3141 in Pennsylvania.

Request an Appointment

Submit an appointment request on our patient portal or contact our New Jersey and Pennsylvania campuses to speak with a patient advocate.