Why Sciatica Happens—and How to Find Lasting Relief

If you’ve ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down the back of your leg, you’ve likely experienced sciatica. This common condition can make standing, sitting, or even sleeping uncomfortable, and for some, the pain can become chronic and life-limiting.

At IGEA Brain, Spine, Pain and Orthopedics, we know how disruptive sciatica can be—and we also know that lasting relief is possible. By understanding what causes sciatica and how to treat it effectively, patients can take real steps toward recovery and improved quality of life.

What Is Sciatica

Sciatica isn’t a condition itself but rather a set of symptoms caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. This nerve runs from the lower spine through the hips and down each leg. When something pinches or inflames the nerve, it can trigger radiating pain, numbness, or weakness that follows its path.

Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica typically results from underlying spinal issues that put pressure on the sciatic nerve roots. The most common causes include:

• Herniated or bulging discs pressing on nerve tissue
• Degenerative disc disease, which narrows the spaces between vertebrae
• Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal
• Bone spurs from arthritis or wear and tear
• Muscle imbalances or piriformis syndrome, where tight muscles compress the nerve

These conditions can develop gradually due to aging or posture habits, or suddenly after an injury or overexertion.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Sciatica pain can vary widely from person to person. Some feel a mild ache, while others describe intense, shooting pain that makes movement difficult. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp pain radiating from the lower back to the buttock, thigh, or calf
• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation down the leg
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot
• Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing, or sneezing

If the pain is persistent or affects your ability to function, it’s important to seek evaluation from a spine specialist.

Finding Relief Through Conservative Care

For most patients, sciatica improves with time and non-surgical treatments. The goal is to reduce nerve inflammation, relieve pressure, and strengthen the supporting muscles of the spine. Effective conservative options include:

• Medication management to control pain and reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy to restore flexibility, strengthen core muscles, and improve posture
• Targeted injections that deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area
• Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments to avoid strain

These strategies not only ease pain but also help prevent recurrence by addressing the root causes of nerve irritation.

When Surgery May Be Needed

If symptoms persist beyond several weeks of conservative care—or if there is significant nerve compression causing weakness, loss of sensation, or difficulty walking—surgical intervention may be recommended.

Procedures such as a microdiscectomy or laminectomy can relieve pressure on the nerve and provide long-term relief. At IGEA Brain, Spine, Pain and Orthopedics, our specialists carefully evaluate each patient’s condition to determine whether surgery is necessary or if continued non-surgical care remains the best option.

Lasting Relief Starts with the Right Diagnosis

Because sciatica can result from different spinal conditions, accurate diagnosis is critical. Imaging studies, nerve testing, and a thorough physical exam help identify the precise source of the nerve irritation so treatment can be targeted effectively.

At IGEA Brain, Spine, Pain and Orthopedics, our team of spine specialists provides comprehensive, individualized care to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent future flare-ups.

Take the Next Step

You don’t have to live with the constant ache, tingling, or shooting pain of sciatica. The right treatment can help you move comfortably again and get back to the life you enjoy.

Schedule an appointment with IGEA Brain, Spine, Pain and Orthopedics today to discuss your symptoms and discover the most effective path to lasting sciatica relief.