Sciatica and Lumbar Radiculopathy Treatment in Miami

Lumbar radiculopathy describes irritation or compression of a nerve originating in the lower back. Sciatica commonly refers to pain traveling from the lower back or buttock down the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve. A herniated disc, spinal stenosis, bone spur, or spondylolisthesis may be responsible. Symptoms can include burning or electric pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.

 

Treatment begins by identifying the underlying cause. Options may include activity modification, medication, physical therapy, nerve-mobility exercises, and a structured home program. Epidural steroid or selective nerve-root injections may help reduce inflammation and can sometimes help confirm which nerve is causing the symptoms.

 

Surgery may be considered when disabling symptoms continue despite nonsurgical care or when progressive weakness or other neurological deficits occur. The procedure is selected according to the source of compression and may include microdiscectomy, laminotomy, laminectomy, or foraminotomy. Fusion may be necessary when nerve compression is associated with instability or vertebral slippage.