Our Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers team is here to share some information about a common condition known as sciatica. This term can describe the symptoms of pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that originates in the lower back and travels through the buttocks all the way down the large sciatic nerve in the back of each leg. There are possibly many reasons why sciatica is caused, but the major reasons include:

• A herniated disc

• Degenerative disc disease

• Lumbar spinal stenosis

• Isthmic spondylolisthesis

• Piriformis syndrome

• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

No matter the cause, these spinal disorders can cause spinal nerve compression that leads to sciatica. The symptoms are often so painful for patients that it forces them to miss out on activities they would love to do. Fortunately, our Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers therapists offer transforaminal injections that have been known to help with problems like sciatica.

The long-acting steroid that is injected reduces the inflammation and swelling of spinal nerve roots and other tissues surrounding the spinal nerve root. Our therapists take great care in trying to make patients feel as comfortable as possible during this procedure. Our Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers team will usually begin by numbing the skin and deeper tissue with a local anesthetic prior to inserting the injection needle. Other options, such as intravenous sedation, may be possible upon request.

The actual injection only takes about five to ten minutes so that you can get back to your life as quickly as possible! (Of course, if you were sedated, you will probably need a ride home)

If you want to consult with one of our Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers therapists about your ongoing sciatica pain, feel free to give us a call at 405-751-0011.