What is Sciatica?

Sciatica describes the sensation of pain down the leg, and is therefore a symptom, not a diagnosis. The textbook definition specifies that pain should start in the lower back or buttock, run down the back of the leg, and extend BELOW the knee to qualify as “sciatica”. It is typically a radiating pain and can be described as a numbness, tingling, or electric type pain. There are several conditions that may present as sciatica, and oftentimes, a physical assessment and diagnostic evaluation may be required to determine the source of this symptom. While sciatica will usually spontaneously resolved, in some cases, persistent symptoms may require medications, physical therapy and injections (see page on Epidural Steroid Injections).

If you think that sciatica is causing your lower back and leg pain schedule an appointment with Austin Spine Health as soon as possible. Our expert level of care can help to relieve your suffering and get you back to a pain free life!