Understanding Sciatica

Sciatica describes symptoms caused by irritation or compression involving the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots that form it. Symptoms may include pain that travels from the low back or buttock into the leg, along with tingling, numbness, or weakness. The pattern and severity vary, and sciatica is a symptom description rather than a complete diagnosis.

Nerve Pain and Similar Pain Patterns

Possible contributors include a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or muscular entrapment. Trigger points in muscles of the low back, hips, and legs can also produce referred pain that resembles sciatica without direct nerve compression. Distinguishing between these possibilities is important because treatment recommendations may differ.

Our Neurosomatic Therapy Approach

At St. John-Clark Pain Treatment Center, assessment considers symptom distribution, posture, gait, pelvic and spinal mechanics, muscular tension, and relevant medical findings. When soft-tissue or movement factors appear to contribute, treatment may include massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, gentle joint mobilization, stretching, strengthening, and patient education. Care may complement medical evaluation and rehabilitation when appropriate.

Results vary, and Neurosomatic Therapy is not a replacement for diagnosis of neurological or spinal conditions. New or progressive leg weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, numbness in the saddle area, fever, or symptoms following major trauma require urgent medical evaluation.