Sciatica in Medellín, Colombia

What is sciatica?

It is pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve: from the lower back or buttock down the back of the thigh and often into the leg and foot. It usually comes with tingling, numbness or an electric-shock sensation.

What causes it?

Most commonly a lumbar herniated disc pressing on the nerve root. It can also come from spinal canal narrowing (stenosis), spondylolisthesis or, less often, compression of the nerve by the piriformis muscle in the buttock.

Does it go away on its own?

Most cases improve in 4 to 6 weeks with pain relievers, staying as active as tolerated and physical therapy. If pain is severe or does not improve, an epidural injection may help, and surgery is considered if it persists or weakness appears.

When is it an emergency?

With progressive weakness in the leg or foot, numbness in the genital area or between the legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Go to the emergency room immediately.

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