WHAT IS SCIATICA?
Sciatica is characterized by low back and buttock pain that radiates along the back of the thigh and sometimes to the toes. Numbness and tingling along with limited trunk range of motion can also present. People will sometimes complain more of leg pain versus low back pain. The pain can be described as dull, aching, or sharp. As we get older, changes occur in our spinal discs. In a herniated disc, the material inside the disc bulges against the spinal ligament.
WHO GETS IT?
This condition is commonly seen with people between the ages of 40-60.
HOW DO YOU GET HELP?
Treatments include short-term bed rest, physical therapy, medications and in rare instances, surgery. Statistics show that the condition resolves within 2-4 months with non-invasive treatment. Only a small number, about 2%, of patients will undergo surgery.