Sciatica is a condition that affects millions of Americans every year, often causing pain that radiates from the lower back into the legs. While some people experience only mild discomfort, others may find their daily activities significantly impacted. At Sara Goel, DO, with offices in Houston and Sugar Land, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sciatica using a comprehensive, patient-centered approach.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is not a condition in itself but a term used to describe symptoms caused by irritation, inflammation, or compression of the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the body. This nerve runs from the lower spine, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg.
When compressed—often due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis—the nerve can cause sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in one leg.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
- Pain radiating from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of one leg
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Difficulty standing or walking due to pain
- Worsening symptoms when sitting for long periods, coughing, or sneezing
Treatment Options at Sara Goel, DO
At our Houston and Sugar Land offices, we focus on customized treatment plans for sciatica. These may include:
- Physical therapy and exercise programs to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain
- Epidural steroid injections to decrease nerve irritation
- Minimally invasive procedures if conservative treatments do not provide relief
- Lifestyle modifications such as posture correction, ergonomic support, and activity adjustments
Our goal is always to restore function, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life without unnecessary procedures.
Sciatica: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if my leg pain is sciatica or something else?
A: True sciatica typically causes pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve pathway—often one-sided, running from the lower back into the buttock, thigh, and calf. Other leg pains may be muscular in nature and not nerve-related.
Q: Can sciatica go away on its own?
A: In some cases, mild sciatica improves with rest, stretching, and over-the-counter medications. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a physician to prevent long-term nerve damage.
Q: When should I see a doctor for sciatica?
A: Seek care if your pain lasts longer than a week, if it’s progressively worsening, or if you experience numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder/bowel control—these may indicate more serious conditions requiring urgent treatment.
Q: Is surgery always necessary for sciatica?
A: No. Most patients improve with conservative treatments. Surgery is reserved for severe cases where symptoms do not respond to other options or when nerve compression is significant.
Q: Can lifestyle changes help prevent sciatica?
A: Yes. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and using proper lifting techniques can reduce your risk of developing sciatica.
Contact Sara Goel, DO
📍 Houston Office
7700 Main St, Suite 400
Houston, TX 77030
📞 (346) 230-4070
📍 Sugar Land Office
16902 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100
Sugar Land, TX 77479
📞 (346) 230-4070
If you or a loved one are struggling with sciatica, schedule an appointment today. Relief and recovery are possible with the right care.