Lower back pain is a common complaint, but when it radiates down your leg, you might be dealing with sciatica. While the terms are often used together, sciatica is not a diagnosis itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue that irritates the sciatic nerve. Understanding this link is the first step toward finding the right back pain treatment Los Angeles specialists can provide.
What causes sciatic nerve pain?
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body, running from your lower back down through your hips, buttocks, and each leg. When something compresses or irritates this nerve, it can cause pain that travels along its path.
Common Culprits Behind Sciatica
Several spinal conditions can trigger sciatic symptoms. A qualified pain specialist in Los Angeles can accurately diagnose the source of your discomfort. Common causes include:
- **Herniated Lumbar Discs:** The soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc can bulge or rupture, pressing directly on the sciatic nerve root.
- **Spinal Stenosis:** This condition involves a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves within it.
- Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips forward over another, it can pinch the sciatic nerve.
- Muscle Imbalance or Spasm: The piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttocks, can sometimes spasm and compress the nearby sciatic nerve.
Recognizing Sciatica Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Sciatica presents a distinct set of symptoms that differentiate it from general lower back pain.
Common Sciatica Symptoms:
- A sharp, shooting, or burning pain that travels from your lower back down one leg.
- Numbness, tingling, or a "pins-and-needles" sensation in your leg or foot.
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg.
When to Seek Medical Assistance
While gentle stretching and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can provide temporary relief, you should consult with experienced Los Angeles doctors if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by significant leg weakness or changes in bowel or bladder function.
Find Lasting Sciatica Relief at Interventional Pain Doctors
At Interventional Pain Doctors, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating the root cause of sciatica. Depending on your diagnosis, your specialist might discuss treatments such as epidural steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, or regenerative medicine approaches. Our goal is to provide the most effective, minimally invasive back pain treatment in Los Angeles, restoring your mobility and quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover your treatment options.