Relief from Sciatica Pain

Pain and discomfort that radiates from the lower back down the legs

Numbness and tingling in the lumbar area 

Weakness and a limited range of mobility due to discomfort and stiffness

Review of family and medical history 

Physical examination of the lower back and legs 

Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans

Electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle and nerve activity

These include non-invasive procedures that use physical therapy or exercises to alleviate pain symptoms. These can be used along with other minimally invasive intervention options or non-opioid medication. Massage therapy focuses on areas that are causing pain and discomfort, releasing pain and pressure from the lumbar area. Chiropractic care uses techniques to align the spine. On the other hand, acupuncture uses needles to focus on pressure points, releasing lumbar pain.

Daily habits can support long-term relief:

✔ Low-impact exercises: Walking, swimming, and cycling improve strength and flexibility.

✔ Postural improvements: Using ergonomic chairs and monitor placement reduces lumbar pressure.

✔ Weight management: Reducing excess weight lessens stress on spinal nerves.

✔ Healthy habits: A balanced diet and avoiding smoking and heavy drinking support spinal health.

Non-opioid medications offered by your health specialist can help reduce spinal swelling and nerve pressure. These may include anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or anticonvulsants. Note that having a previous examination from a professional healthcare provider is crucial to understanding the condition and if medications are the ideal treatment.

Unlike local anesthetics, injections offer longer-lasting relief for patients dealing with sciatica. Available options can include:

✔ Corticosteroid injections: Have anti-inflammatory properties and are administered through a small incision. They are typically prescribed for short-term use.

✔ Botox injections: Help relax the piriformis muscle in patients with piriformis syndrome, relieving compression on the sciatic nerve.

Neuromodulation works by blocking or altering the nerve signals that transmit pain to the brain. This approach can be especially effective in reducing lumbar stress caused by conditions such as degenerative disc disease.

✔ Spinal cord stimulation: Involves implanting a small device that sends controlled electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses modify nerve activity and block pain signals, allowing relief even though the source of the discomfort remains.

✔ Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): Delivers low-voltage electrical currents through the skin to interrupt pain signal transmission and improve blood flow to the affected area.

Minimally invasive interventions provide significant benefits over traditional surgical procedures. These techniques are designed to relieve pain and improve mobility within just a few days, while minimizing the risks typically associated with surgery. Because they involve minimal disruption to surrounding tissues and spinal nerves, recovery time and the likelihood of complications are greatly reduced.

Some commonly used minimally invasive procedures include:

✔ Microdiscectomy: Involves removing a portion of the damaged intervertebral disc that is compressing spinal nerves. This helps relieve pressure and reduce pain in the affected area.

✔ Laminectomy: A procedure that partially removes the lamina—the arch of the vertebra—to decompress the spinal canal and alleviate nerve-related pain.

Tualatin Clinic

Newberg Clinic