If you experience pain, numbness, or tingling that travels down your leg, you likely have sciatica. However, sciatica is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in the lower spine.

Understanding the Difference

• Herniated Disc: This occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the tougher outer layer. The bulging disc material can press directly on a nearby spinal nerve root.

• Sciatica: This is the pain and neurological symptoms that result when the sciatic nerve (the longest nerve in the body, formed by several spinal nerve roots) is compressed or irritated, usually by that herniated disc.

Treatment Focus

In some cases both a herniated disc and the resulting sciatica can be treated without surgery

• Conservative Care: Rest, targeted physical therapy (McKenzie exercises), anti-inflammatory medications, and epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve root inflammation.

• Surgical Option: If pain is unmanageable, or if there is progressive weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control, a surgeon may perform a microdiscectomy—a minimally invasive procedure to remove the portion of the disc that is compressing the nerve.

Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for general educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.