Sciatica
Sciatica is also called lower extremity (L5/S1) radiculitis, or radiculopathy, and is a condition characterized by weakness or sensory changes along the sciatic nerve pathway. The sensory changes are often described as “pins and needles” and can extend down the buttock, leg, and foot. Symptoms of serious concern include severe nerve impingement, bladder incontinence, bowel incontinence, lower extremity weakness, and profound loss of sensation. Loss of bowel or bladder function with sensory deficits and weakness is termed Cauda Equina Syndrome and is a true medical emergency.
The diagnosis of sciatica can often be determined through a physical and neurological exam. At Innovative Pain & Spine Specialists in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, our pain medicine providers may also choose to evaluate your condition through one of the following procedures:- X-rays: a common test used to evaluate joints, bones, and lesions in the spine- Cat Scan (CT): a common test used when a patient has challenges getting an MRI- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): a standard test used to evaluate bones, joints, discs, tissues, and nerves in the lumbar spine.
At Innovative Pain & Spine Specialists in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, our providers often treat sciatica using a combination of physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. Our providers may also recommend epidural steroid injections to reduce the nerve inflammation and pain.
