Sciatica is a common condition that causes sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back or buttocks down the back of one leg. It occurs when the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, becomes compressed or irritated.
At Midwest Spine & Brain Institute, our board-certified neurosurgeons and spine specialists diagnose and treat sciatica using advanced, evidence-based techniques – helping patients across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin find lasting relief and return to an active life.
What Is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve originates in the lower spine (lumbar region) and runs through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. When this nerve is compressed by a spinal condition, inflammation, or injury, it can trigger pain and neurological symptoms along its pathway.
Sciatica is sometimes referred to as lumbar radiculopathy, meaning pain caused by irritation or compression of a spinal nerve root in the lower back.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatic nerve compression may result from one or more spinal conditions, including:
- Herniated or bulging disc
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
- Spinal trauma or injury
- Tumor or spinal infection (rare causes)
Symptoms of Sciatica
Symptoms may vary from mild discomfort to severe pain. Common signs include:
- Radiating pain from the lower back through the buttock and leg
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in the leg or foot
- Numbness or muscle weakness in the affected limb
- Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing, or sneezing
- Difficulty with walking, standing, or bending
If sciatica pain is accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control, seek immediate medical attention, as this may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a surgical emergency.
How Sciatica Is Diagnosed
Your Midwest Spine & Brain Institute specialist will perform a detailed evaluation that may include:
- Physical examination to assess strength, reflexes, and nerve tension
- MRI or CT scan to identify disc herniations or spinal narrowing
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function and irritation
This comprehensive assessment helps pinpoint the exact cause of your sciatic pain.
Sciatica Treatment Options
Non-Surgical (Conservative) Care
Most patients improve without surgery through:
- Physical therapy and guided exercise programs
- Anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants
- Image-guided epidural steroid injections for targeted pain relief
- Activity modification and posture correction
These options aim to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and promote healing.
Surgical Treatments
If conservative treatments fail or symptoms worsen, our surgeons may recommend one of the following minimally invasive spine surgeries:
- Microdiscectomy: Removes the portion of a herniated disc pressing on the sciatic nerve.
- Laminectomy or Laminotomy: Removes part of the vertebral bone to create more space for nerves.
- Spinal fusion or disc replacement: Stabilizes the spine in severe or degenerative cases.
All procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques to minimize pain and recovery time.
Why Choose Midwest Spine & Brain Institute
- Board-Certified Neurosurgeons & Orthopedic Spine Surgeons
- Minimally Invasive Expertise for sciatica and lumbar conditions
- Comprehensive, patient-centered care from diagnosis to recovery
- Convenient clinic locations across the Twin Cities metro and Western Wisconsin
- Advanced imaging and treatment technology for precision outcomes
Twin Cities Sciatica Specialists
If you’re struggling with persistent sciatic nerve pain, early diagnosis and targeted treatment can help prevent long-term nerve damage.
📞 Call 1.800.353.7720 or use our Request an Appointment form to schedule your consultation.
Our team of Minnesota spine specialists will help you find the safest and most effective path to lasting pain relief.
FAQs for Sciatica
Q: What is the fastest way to relieve sciatica pain?
Applying heat or ice, gentle stretching, and taking anti-inflammatory medication can provide short-term relief. For lasting results, consult a spine specialist for targeted care.
Q: Can sciatica go away on its own?
Yes – mild cases often improve within a few weeks with rest and physical therapy, though chronic sciatica may require interventional treatment or surgery.
Q: When is surgery needed for sciatica?
Surgery is considered if pain persists for more than 6–8 weeks, or if there’s significant leg weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder/bowel control.
Q: Is walking good for sciatica?
Yes, gentle walking helps improve blood flow and reduces nerve inflammation, but activities should be guided by a physical therapist.