FAQs About Sciatic Nerve Pain 

One of the most painful conditions is sciatic nerve pain, also called sciatica. Affecting between approximately 10 and 40 percent of the population, sciatica is a condition that is often so painful that it’s debilitating. At Pain Control Associates, LLC, we treat many patients who are living with sciatic nerve pain. We know that if you have sciatica, you probably have a lot of questions about the causes of the pain and your treatment options. Consider these answers to some of the frequently asked questions that we hear about sciatica, and call our team directly today for information that’s specific to your case–

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to nerve pain that is concentrated in the gluteal area and can resonate through the hip, buttocks, and down the leg to the point right above the back of the knee. While the sciatic nerve is the longest (and thickest) nerve in the body and runs down both sides of the buttocks and legs, sciatic nerve pain is typically only felt on one side of the body. As such, “sciatica” is used by patients and doctors to discuss pain that starts in the lower back or glutes and radiates down the back of one leg. 

What Causes Sciatic Nerve Pain?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is injured, which may occur as a result of inflammation, compression of the nerve, irritation, or pinching of the sciatic nerve. Risk factors for sciatic include acute injuries, being overweight, having diabetes, having other health conditions or diseases, smoking, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and engaging in regular, heavy lifting, especially with improper form. Sometimes, the cause of sciatic isn’t fully understood. 

What Types of Treatments Are Available for Sciatica?

Sciatic nerve pain can be disabling and can take a huge toll on a person’s quality of life. Before treatment begins, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis of the condition. Once sciatica has been confirmed as the source of your pain, your doctor will develop a treatment plan that’s based on the cause of the sciatic, your medical history and lifestyle, and your needs and goals. Potential treatment options might include medication, lifestyle changes, alternative medicine, physical therapy, and more. 

Can I Do Anything at Home to Reduce My Pain?

Sometimes, making lifestyle changes at home and pursuing home remedies can help you to reduce, treat, or manage pain. Examples of home remedies that might be effective include applying heat or ice, stretching, maintaining an active lifestyle and exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and using over-the-counter pain medications. 

Why Should I Work with Pain Control Associates, LLC?

At Pain Control Associates, LLC, our doctors care about your pain and have experience working with patients like you who are struggling with sciatic nerve pain. Our doctors take a holistic management approach that is based on our patients’ needs, and never assume that what works for one patient will have the exact same effect on another. To learn more about our doctors and our pain management therapies, please call us today or send us a message at your convenience.