Sciatica (Lumbar Radiculopathy)

Sciatica, also known as lumbar radiculopathy, is a condition where irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve causes pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg. This pain can range from mild to severe and often affects daily activities. At The Orthopedic Partners, our spine specialists diagnose and treat sciatica with a full spectrum of care, from non-surgical options to advanced surgical solutions when necessary.

What Is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, formed by several nerve roots that exit the lower spine. When one of these nerve roots is compressed or inflamed, usually by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or bone spur, the result is lumbar radiculopathy, commonly called sciatica.

The hallmark feature is pain radiating from the lower back through the buttocks and down one leg, often following the nerve’s path. While sciatica usually affects one side of the body, it can sometimes occur on both sides.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of nerve involvement. Common signs include:

  • Sharp, shooting pain from the low back into the buttock, thigh, or leg
  • Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
  • Muscle weakness in the affected leg
  • Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing
  • Relief when lying down

In rare, severe cases, sciatica may be accompanied by loss of bowel or bladder control, which requires immediate medical attention.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is not a condition itself but rather a symptom of an underlying spine problem. Common causes include:

  • Herniated disc: A bulging or ruptured disc presses on a nerve root
  • Degenerative disc disease: Disc wear and tear leads to narrowing around nerves
  • Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal compresses nerves
  • Spondylolisthesis: A slipped vertebra pinches nerve roots
  • Bone spurs (osteophytes): Overgrowth from arthritis encroaches on the nerve
  • Trauma or injury: Sudden impact to the lower back

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of developing sciatica:

  • Age-related spine degeneration (common over age 40)
  • Obesity, which increases stress on the lower back
  • Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting
  • Physically demanding jobs that involve lifting or twisting
  • Previous spine injury or surgery
  • Poor posture and weak core muscles

How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?

At The Orthopedic Partners, diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam to evaluate pain patterns, reflexes, and muscle strength. We may also recommend imaging tests such as:

  • X-rays: To identify bone spurs, arthritis, or vertebral alignment
  • MRI: The best tool for visualizing discs, nerves, and spinal canal narrowing
  • CT scan or myelogram: Helpful in more complex cases
  • Electrodiagnostic testing (EMG/NCS): Occasionally helpful to confirm which nerve root is affected

Treatment Options for Sciatica

Most cases of sciatica improve with non-surgical treatments. Our specialists create personalized plans based on your symptoms and lifestyle.

Non-surgical Treatments

  • Activity modification: Avoiding positions or movements that trigger pain
  • Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen core and back muscles, improve posture, and reduce nerve pressure
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications
  • Epidural steroid injections: Targeted relief of inflammation around the nerve root
  • Heat/ice therapy: For temporary symptom management

Surgical Treatment

If conservative measures don’t relieve symptoms or if nerve compression is severe, surgery may be considered. Options include:

  • Lumbar Microdiscectomy: Minimally invasive removal of herniated disc material
  • Laminectomy: Removes bone or tissue pressing on the nerve
  • Spinal Fusion: Stabilizes the spine when instability contributes to nerve compression

Whenever appropriate, our surgeons use robotic-assisted and computer-navigated techniques for improved precision and safety.

When to See a Spine Specialist for Sciatica

You should see a spine specialist if sciatica pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens over time, or is accompanied by leg weakness, numbness, or bowel/bladder changes. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term nerve damage and speed recovery.

Relief from Sciatica Starts Here

At The Orthopedic Partners, our team specializes in treating sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy) with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you need physical therapy, injections, or advanced surgery, we’re here to help you find lasting relief and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Schedule your consultation and take the first step toward recovery.