At Valley Physical Medicine in Fayetteville, NC, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sciatica, a common condition that affects many individuals. Our team is dedicated to providing relief from pain and helping you return to your normal activities without discomfort.
Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body and is often caused by a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compressing part of the nerve. This compression causes inflammation, pain, and often some numbness in the affected leg.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Common symptoms of sciatica include:
- Lower back pain that extends through the hip and buttock and down one leg
- Pain that feels better when lying down or walking but worsens when standing or sitting
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot
- Pain that is described as sharp or burning, rather than dull
- A jolt or electric shock-like sensation
Our Sciatica Treatment Services
We offer various treatments that are tailored to address the specific causes of your sciatica:
- Chiropractic Care: Adjustments to realign the spine and reduce nerve irritability.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility.
- Massage Therapy: Techniques to relieve muscle tightness in the lower back and legs.
- Pain Management: Modalities like hot/cold therapies, ultrasound, or TENS to reduce pain.
Why Choose Valley Physical Medicine for Sciatica Treatment?
- Experienced Team: Our providers are experts in non-surgical treatments for sciatica and have a high success rate in improving patient outcomes.
- Individualized Treatment Plans: Each treatment plan is customized based on your specific symptoms and diagnosis.
- Comprehensive Care: We address all factors contributing to your sciatica, ensuring holistic treatment.
Schedule Your Sciatica Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of sciatica, early treatment is crucial to prevent worsening of symptoms. Contact Valley Physical Medicine today to schedule a consultation. Our team is ready to assist you in achieving relief from sciatica pain and guide you back to a pain-free lifestyle.
Call us at (910) 867-5500 or book an appointment online through our appointments page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sciatica Treatment
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and along each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is most commonly caused by a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) that compresses a part of the nerve. This compression causes inflammation, pain, and sometimes numbness in the affected leg.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
The hallmark symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from your lower spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg. This pain can vary in severity and may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness along the nerve pathway.
How do you diagnose sciatica?
Diagnosis of sciatica typically involves a physical exam and medical history. Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scans, and X-rays might be used to further investigate the cause of the sciatica, especially if the pain is severe or does not improve with initial treatment.
What treatment options are available for sciatica at Valley Physical Medicine?
Our treatment options include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: To help alleviate nerve irritation and improve spinal alignment.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises designed to strengthen the muscles supporting your back and improve flexibility.
- Massage Therapy: To help relieve muscle tightness in the lower back and legs.
- Pain Management Techniques: Including heat/cold therapy and electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and pain.
How effective is non-surgical treatment for sciatica?
Non-surgical treatments can be highly effective for many patients with sciatica, especially when started early. These treatments focus on relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve and preventing future injuries.
Can lifestyle changes help manage sciatica symptoms?
Yes, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing sciatica symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing proper posture, and performing regular exercise that strengthens the core and back can help reduce the risk of sciatica.
How long does it take to see improvements from treatment?
Improvements can vary depending on the severity of the condition and how an individual responds to treatment. Some patients may notice relief within a few weeks, while others might require more prolonged therapy to achieve significant improvement.
How can I schedule an appointment for sciatica treatment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at (910) 867-5500 or by visiting our appointments page to book online. We encourage early treatment to achieve the best outcomes.