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Sciatica

Though sciatica is relatively common, that does not mean we take it lightly. Paragon Health Group is proud to provide our patients in Newport Beach and Bakersfield with sciatica treatment built around improving their daily lives. Our expert staff and experienced spinal surgeons deliver a consistently high level of care in a compassionate and stress-free environment.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that causes pain to radiate along the length of your sciatic nerve, and it can range from almost not noticeable to more impactful. This nerve runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Symptoms of sciatica can vary from mild to severe, including tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs and feet. In more severe cases, it can lead to significant challenges, due to decreased mobility, chronic pain, and other associated symptoms.

Common Causes and Risk Factors of Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that is often caused by age-related degeneration of the spine, but other factors can come into play as well. In fact, it is somewhat common even among younger patients. Other common causes include injuries to the spine and nerves, herniated or slipped discs, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes. Certain activities, such as heavy lifting or repetitive motion, can also increase your risk of developing this condition, especially if done without precautions.

Signs You Have Sciatica

If you are experiencing any combination of the following symptoms, you may have sciatica. But, the only way to be certain is to have a spinal physician examine your spine and provide a professional diagnosis.

Pain or discomfort that radiates down your leg, beginning in your lower back and traveling to your foot.
Tingling, numbness, or weakness in one leg.
Difficulty standing up straight due to pain.
Lower back pain that worsens when sitting or lying down
Sharp, burning sensation in your leg

How Do We Treat This Condition?

At Paragon Health Group, our team of experienced doctors and specialists can help you find lasting relief from your sciatica symptoms with a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs, body, and symptoms. Treatment options may include:

Physical therapy — Our physical therapists can design an exercise program to strengthen the muscles in your lower back and legs, reducing pressure on your sciatic nerve.
Medication — Your doctor may recommend medications to help manage your sciatica pain.
Surgery — In severe cases, your doctor may suggest surgery to repair herniated discs or other causes of sciatica.
Chiropractic care — Through a combination of chiropractic adjustments and targeted exercises, chiropractors can help alleviate sciatic nerve pain.

Paragon Health Group in Bakersfield and Newport Beach offers a variety of treatment options for sciatica, allowing you to find relief from the discomfort it can bring to daily life.

Preventing Sciatica: Is It Possible?

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent sciatica, a few simple lifestyle modifications can help reduce your risk.

Maintain good posture when standing and moving about
Practice regular stretching and exercise, as this can strengthen the muscles in your back and help support your spine
Choose comfortable shoes with good arch support (which can place less strain on your entire skeletal structure)
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the amount of strain on your spine
Avoid sitting for extended periods of time (especially with improper posture)
Try to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activities that can increase your risk for sciatica (and if you need to lift something, be sure to use proper techniques)
By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself against sciatica and reduce the risk of developing the condition over time.

What Will Be the Results of Treatment?

Treatment outcomes for sciatica can vary depending on the cause and severity of your condition. However, most people seeking sciatica treatment experience improved mobility, reduced pain, and less frequent flare-ups. In some cases, symptoms may even be entirely eliminated. However, each situation is unique, and we thoroughly consult patients on what their expected outcomes could look like before moving forward with any treatment plan. Our goal is for you to be fully informed, so you can decide on your path forward with confidence. To learn more about our treatments or to schedule an appointment at Paragon Health Group, you can call one of our office locations or use our online form.

Schedule Your Visit Today

If you are experiencing sciatica symptoms, contact Paragon Health Group today. Our team of spine surgeon and staff are dedicated to bringing quality care to our Southern California patients. Use our online form or call one of our locations today to book your visit for a consultation about sciatica and its treatment options.