Sciatica

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, becomes irritated or compressed. The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back and travels through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg, providing sensation and muscle control throughout the lower extremities.

When the nerve is irritated, inflamed, or compressed, it can cause pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. While some people experience mild discomfort, others may have severe pain that interferes with walking, sleeping, working, or enjoying everyday activities.

Sciatica itself is not a diagnosis but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. Identifying the source of the nerve irritation is an important first step in creating an effective treatment plan.

Because many different conditions can cause sciatica, Dr. Charles Boley performs a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate conservative treatment options.

Common Symptoms

Patients with sciatica often experience:

 Pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock or leg.

 Burning or sharp, shooting pain down the leg.

 Tingling or "pins and needles" sensations.

 Numbness in the leg or foot.

 Muscle weakness in the affected leg.

 Pain that worsens when sitting for long periods.

 Increased discomfort when coughing, sneezing, or certain movements.

 Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and cause of the nerve irritation.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica can develop for several reasons, including:

 Herniated or bulging discs.

 Degenerative disc disease.

 Spinal stenosis.

 Piriformis syndrome.

 Arthritis affecting the spine.

 Bone spurs.

 Muscle tightness or inflammation.

 Sports injuries.

 Repetitive lifting or bending.

 Age-related changes in the spine.

Many patients have more than one contributing factor, making a personalized treatment plan

essential.

How StemWave Therapy May Help

StemWave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic wave technology to stimulate the body's natural healing response. Depending on the underlying cause of your symptoms, StemWave may help improve circulation, support tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain associated with certain musculoskeletal conditions.

For some patients experiencing sciatica, StemWave may be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan alongside chiropractic care, spinal decompression, rehabilitation exercises, and other conservative therapies. The goal is to help reduce irritation around affected tissues, improve function, and support long-term recovery.

Since sciatica can have many different causes, Dr. Charles Boley performs a thorough evaluation, reviews any available imaging such as MRI or X-rays, and determines whether StemWave Therapy is an appropriate option based on your specific condition.