SCIATICA LOS ANGELES

Find Relief For Sciatica

Are you experiencing sharp, shooting pain that radiates from your lower back down through your leg? You might be suffering from sciatica. At the Spine and Pain Institute Los Angeles, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sciatica to help you find relief and get back to your daily activities. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY
aged man sitting on a couch holding his back from pain

What is Sciatica? 

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. This nerve runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica occurs when the nerve is irritated, inflamed, compressed, or pinched, often due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. It is a common condition, affecting up to 40% of people at some point in their lives.

The pain from sciatica can range from mild to severe and is often described as sharp, burning, or shooting. In addition to pain, sciatica can cause numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot. It typically affects only one side of the body and can be triggered by activities like heavy lifting or prolonged sitting.

When to See a Doctor

Contact a doctor if you experience severe pain that does not improve with self-care, persistent symptoms lasting more than a week, worsening pain, significant leg or foot weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or sciatica following a significant injury. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate medical attention to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

Take Control Of Your Back Pain.
Schedule An Appointment Today!

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is caused by irritation, inflammation, compression, or pinching of the sciatic nerve. Common causes include:

1. Herniated Disc: The inner core of a spinal disc bulges out and presses on the nerve.

2. Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the nerve.

3. Degenerative Disc Disease: Discs wear down over time, leading to nerve irritation.

4. Spondylolisthesis: One vertebra slips over another, pinching the nerve.

5. Piriformis Syndrome: Muscle spasms or inflammation in the buttocks affecting the nerve.

Risk factors such as age, occupation, prolonged sitting, and diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing sciatica.

running man holding his back and neck from pain

Diagnosing Sciatica

Diagnosing sciatica at Spine & Pain Institute LA begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. We may ask about your symptoms, including the location, nature, and intensity of your pain. During the physical exam, you may be asked to perform movements like walking on your heels or toes, rising from a squatting position, and lifting your leg while lying down (straight leg raise test). These tests help determine if the sciatic nerve is affected.

Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be ordered to pinpoint the exact cause of nerve compression, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. Electromyography (EMG) may also be used to measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Sciatica at Spine & Pain Institute LA


At Spine & Pain Institute, we offer comprehensive pain management for sciatica. After a thorough review of your medical history, we make a personalized treatment plan for you. 

  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate pain. Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to reduce muscle spasms, and corticosteroids, either oral or injectable, can help reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Customized exercise programs can strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Manual therapy techniques, such as massage and spinal manipulation, can also alleviate pain and improve mobility.
  • Injections: Epidural steroid injections can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain when injected into the epidural space. Facet joint injections can also reduce inflammation and pain when administered into the facet joints.
  • Nerve Blocks: Local anesthetics or steroids are injected near the affected nerve to block pain signals.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation: A procedure that uses heat to destroy nerve fibers carrying pain signals to the brain.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation: A device implanted under the skin sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord to relieve pain.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica symptoms can vary widely in intensity and location, but they typically follow a recognizable pattern along the path of the sciatic nerve. Common symptoms include:

1. Lower Back Pain: Often a constant, dull ache that can intensify with prolonged sitting or standing.

2. Radiating Leg Pain: Sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back, through the buttock, and down the back of one leg. This pain is the hallmark of sciatica.

3. Numbness and Tingling: A tingling, pins-and-needles sensation or numbness can occur in the leg, foot, or toes.

4. Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the affected leg or foot, making it difficult to move or control. This can affect walking, standing, or lifting the foot.

5. Pain that Worsens with Movement: Activities such as coughing, sneezing, or bending can exacerbate the pain.

6. Limited Mobility: Difficulty moving, standing up from a seated position, or walking due to pain and discomfort.

7. Unilateral Symptoms: Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body, though it can occasionally occur on both sides.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Take Control Of Your Pain Today!

If you’re experiencing symptoms of sciatica, don’t wait to seek help. At the Spine and Pain Institute Los Angeles, our dedicated team of specialists is here to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Serving Pasadena and the Greater Los Anglese area, we offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options to help you find relief and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life. Your path to recovery starts here.
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY
Copyright © 2025 Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles