Sciatica
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — the largest nerve in the body — which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. Patients often describe sciatica as a sharp, shooting, or burning pain that makes it difficult to sit, walk, or sleep comfortably. Some also experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg.
Sciatica Q & A
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is not a diagnosis itself but a symptom of underlying spinal problems. Common causes include:
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Herniated or bulging discs pressing on spinal nerves
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Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves)
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Degenerative disc disease leading to nerve irritation
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Spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebra over another)
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Piriformis syndrome (rare cause where a muscle in the buttock irritates the sciatic nerve)
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What are the symptoms of sciatica?
Patients with sciatica may experience:
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Sharp, shooting pain from the lower back into the buttocks, thigh, or leg
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Tingling, “pins and needles,” or burning sensations down the leg
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Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot
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Pain that worsens when sitting, bending, or coughing
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Difficulty standing up straight or walking due to nerve pain
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How does Ashford Pain Solutions treat sciatica?
At Ashford Pain Solutions, we specialize in interventional pain management to treat the root cause of sciatica. Depending on your diagnosis, Dr. Ashford may recommend:
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Lumbar epidural steroid injections (ESIs) to reduce inflammation and irritation of spinal nerves
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Facet joint injections or medial branch blocks (MBBs) if arthritis is contributing to nerve irritation
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Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for longer-lasting relief after MBBs
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Trigger point injections for painful muscle spasms in the lower back or buttocks
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Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for chronic sciatica pain not relieved by other treatments
When appropriate, our team may also recommend physical therapy to improve posture, flexibility, and core strength — all of which support long-term spine health.
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Say Goodbye to Sciatica Pain
If you are looking for sciatica treatment in Athens, GA, Dr. James Ashford and the team at Ashford Pain Solutions can help. Call us today at 706-286-8344 or request an appointment online to begin your path toward lasting relief.
Sciatica Treatment in Athens, GA
At Ashford Pain Solutions in Athens, GA, Dr. James Ashford — an interventional pain management specialist and board-certified anesthesiologist — provides advanced, minimally invasive treatments to relieve sciatica. Our goal is to target the source of nerve irritation, reduce pain, and help patients return to an active, fulfilling life without unnecessary surgery.
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