Sciatica and Nerve Compression Treatment in Fort Myers
Sciatica describes pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, usually from the lower back into the buttock and leg. It is a symptom of an underlying problem rather than a diagnosis by itself.
Dr. Franco Vigna evaluates the source of sciatic pain and other nerve related symptoms to determine whether they are caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, instability, or another spinal condition.
What Does Sciatica Feel Like?
Sciatic pain can vary from a dull ache to a sharp, burning, or electric sensation. It commonly affects one side of the body but may affect both legs when compression is more extensive.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain extending through the buttock and leg
- Tingling or pins and needles
- Numbness in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the ankle, foot, or toes
- Pain that worsens while sitting
- Discomfort during coughing, sneezing, or bending
- Difficulty walking or standing
The location of the symptoms can help identify which nerve root may be affected.
Common Causes of Sciatica
- Lumbar herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Bone spurs
- Spondylolisthesis
- Foraminal narrowing
- Spinal cysts
- Injury or instability
Evaluating Nerve Compression
Dr. Vigna performs a neurological examination that may include testing strength, reflexes, sensation, walking, and leg movement. An MRI may be ordered to locate a herniated disc, narrowed nerve opening, or another source of compression.
Diagnostic findings must correspond with the pattern of pain and neurological symptoms. Some spinal abnormalities appear on imaging without causing pain.
Treatment for Sciatica
Initial treatment may include medication, physical therapy, modified activity, and image guided injections. Patients are generally encouraged to remain safely active rather than relying on prolonged bed rest.
Surgical treatment may be considered when there is persistent nerve compression, progressive weakness, severe pain, or substantial loss of function. Procedures may include:
- Minimally invasive discectomy
- Laminectomy or laminotomy
- Foraminotomy
- Decompression with spinal fusion
- Disc replacement in selected patients
The goal is to relieve pressure on the affected nerve while preserving as much healthy anatomy as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sciatica a permanent condition?
Not usually. Many cases improve with conservative treatment. Symptoms may persist when a nerve remains compressed or when the underlying spinal condition progresses.
Can sciatica affect both legs?
Yes. Although one sided symptoms are more common, narrowing or compression in the central spinal canal can affect nerves traveling into both legs.
How is sciatica different from ordinary lower back pain?
Lower back pain may remain near the spine. Sciatica follows the path of an irritated nerve and typically travels into the buttock, thigh, calf, or foot.
When should weakness from sciatica be evaluated?
Will an MRI always explain sciatic pain?
An MRI can identify many causes of nerve compression, but the results must be compared with the patient's symptoms and physical examination. An abnormal MRI finding is not always the source of pain.