Sciatica Pain Treatments in Northern New Jersey
Ranging from mild to debilitating, sciatica can affect one’s quality of life and overall wellbeing. Finding the best doctor for sciatica nerve pain can help put you on the path toward much-needed relief and recovery. At Bergen Pain Management, you’re in good hands with Dr. Thomas Ragukonis. As a board-certified, award-winning doctor with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Ragukonis can help you find minimally invasive, non-surgical solutions for sciatica. Explore the advanced treatments offered in our state-of-the-art offices in Paramus, West New York, and Union, New Jersey.
What Causes Sciatic Nerve Pain?
Sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy) occurs when the nerve root that sits between your bones and discs in the part of the lower spinal area is compressed. Nerve-root injuries may occur along the five vertebrae in the lumbar spine (L1 through L5) or at sacrum level (S1). Causes for sciatic nerve pain may include:
Herniated Disc
The discs in your spine cushion the individual bones in your vertebrae. If one of those becomes herniated, it can put pressure on the nerve at the core, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the extremities.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, spinal discs begin to break down and lose their flexibility. The loss of natural cushioning between vertebrae results in a stiff, achy back that is less able to absorb shock. It may become more easily injured and also lead to nerve root pinching.
Spinal Stenosis
As the bones, discs, and joints of the spine age, bony spurs may form. These bone spurs can put pressure on nerve roots as they protrude into the spinal canal, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Signs and Symptoms of Sciatica
The nerves in your lower lumbar region travel to the hips, buttocks, legs, and feet, which is where symptoms of sciatica are often felt. Nerve pain symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling
The areas in which symptoms are felt depend on the specific nerve root affected. Different areas of the spine will result in symptoms in different areas of the body. Examples of how this might feel for individuals suffering from sciatica include:
- L2 vertebrae: Pain in the thigh, weakness in the hip
- L3 vertebrae: Pain in the thigh, weakness in the knee and thigh
- L4 vertebrae: Pain in the lower back, radiating down to the knee and foot with foot weakness
- L5 vertebrae: Pain from the outside of the leg down to the big toe with foot pain/weakness
- S1 vertebrae: Pain from the back of the calf to the outside of the foot and little toe with foot weakness
Sciatica Pain Treatment Options at Bergen Pain Management
The cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures for this condition may vary depending on the location of the pinched nerve and the severity of the condition. Some pain management options for our patients include:
- Sacroiliac joint injections
- Percutaneous decompression
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Hot/cold compresses
- Muscle relaxers
Dr. Ragukonis works with patients on an individualized basis to come up with the best treatment plan. He’ll listen to your concerns, help you understand the condition, and find pain management solutions that meet your needs.