Degenerative arthritis, a slipped disc, and trauma can increase your risk of sciatica: A condition characterized by sharp shooting pain that radiates down one or both legs, along the sciatic nerve. The Optima Medical team in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, has years of collective experience in diagnosing and treating sciatica. They offer a wide range of treatments, such as spinal manipulation, heat and cold therapies, and physical medicine rehabilitation. If you’re experiencing sciatica, visit the Optima Medical group to find out how they can help. Call or book an appointment online today.

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What is sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is your body’s longest and largest nerve. It originates in your lower back, extends through your pelvis, and splits into two nerves just above your knee that travel down your lower leg to your toes.

Sciatica is a symptom that results from pressure on your sciatic nerve that causes radiating pain down your legs. The pain usually shoots down one leg but can affect both sides of your body.

Sciatic pain can vary from mild to severe and significantly hinder your movement. Common symptoms of sciatica include:

  • Lower back pain
  • Hip and pelvic pain
  • Weakness and numbness
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Tingling or warm sensation in your legs

If you’re experiencing a loss of bladder or bowel control, see your Optima Medical provider as soon as possible. That’s one of the more severe symptoms of sciatica and can lead to other health complications.

What causes sciatica?

A herniated disc — when a spinal disc presses against a nerve — is the most common cause of sciatica. Other causes of sciatica include:

  • Pregnancy
  • Muscle spasms
  • Spondylolisthesis, or slipped vertebra

Certain factors can make sciatic pain worse, including:

  • Improper posture
  • Being overweight
  • A lack of frequent exercise
  • Sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress

Other causes of sciatica include spine problems, such as arthritis, bone spurs, and a narrow spinal canal.

What are the treatment options for sciatica?

The Optima Medical group provides numerous treatment options for you in their comfortable office.

Depending on the severity and cause of your sciatica, these treatment options include:

  • A posture evaluation
  • Heat or cold therapy
  • TENS (electrical nerve stimulation)
  • Stretching and physical rehabilitation
  • Spinal manipulation (manipulating joints with gentle, low-force pressure)

If you’re experiencing sciatic pain, the experienced specialists at Optima Medical can explain the variety of treatment options available and help you determine what’s best for you. Call or book your appointment online today.