Understanding Sciatica

Sciatica is one of the most commonly mentioned spinal conditions and describes pain that originates in the lower back and radiates into the buttocks, the back of the legs, and into the feet. The sciatic nerve is the longest continuous nerve in the body, beginning in the lower back and extending into the legs. Sciatica is a term used to describe the pain but is not an actual diagnosis and is instead a symptom of an underlying condition that is causing pressure on the sciatic nerve.

These conditions can include:

• Herniated, bulging or slipped spinal discs
• Spinal Stenosis
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Spinal bone spurs
• Spinal arthritis
• Spondylosis
• Ankylosing Spondylitis
• Facet Joint Disease
• Spinal fractures

At The Spine Center, Board Certified Neurosurgeon Dr. Charles Thofilos has helped thousands of patients with Sciatica return to an active and healthy lifestyle using a variety of treatment options.

How is Sciatica Treated at The Spine Center?

Sciatica is usually effectively treated using non-surgical treatment options. Dr. Charles Theofilos creates treatment plans based on your lifestyle and goals. These treatment plans may consist of any combination of the following non-surgical treatment options:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical Therapy
• Corticosteroid injection
• Laser therapy for pain relief
• SpinePack Supplements

Surgery may be recommended if Sciatica does not respond to non-surgical treatment options. Two of the most common procedures used are a Minimally Invasive Microdiscectomy or a Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion. Board Certified Neurosurgeon Dr. Charles Theofilos is an expert in a variety of Minimally Invasive Surgical procedures to treat Sciatica.