Sciatica Specialist
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Kenneth J Eaddy, MD
Board Certified in Interventional Pain Management & Internal Medicine located in Jacksonville, FL
Sciatica is a common, but painful, condition that affects up to 40% of adults. Fortunately, with early intervention and treatment, it’s possible to reduce uncomfortable symptoms and return to your normal routine. At his self-titled practice, double board-certified interventional pain management physician Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of sciatica. To make an appointment, call the office in Jacksonville, Florida, or click the online booking feature today.
Sciatica Q & A
What is sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that occurs along your sciatic nerve –– the longest nerve in your entire body. If your sciatic nerve becomes pinched or compressed because of a herniated disc or the narrowing of your spine, it can result in chronic low back pain, tingling in your legs, and difficulty walking.
The symptoms of sciatica are often severe, but they usually resolve with a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, activity modification, and rest. If you regularly experience low back pain or tingling in your legs and feet, contact Dr. Eaddy.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
Pain caused by sciatica typically occurs on only one side of the body. It’s characterized by a sharp, shooting sensation in your buttocks or lower back. As the condition gets worse, you might also experience pins and needles sensations in your legs and feet, making it difficult to stand, walk, or exercise.
Who is at risk of experiencing sciatica?
Sciatica affects people of all backgrounds, but several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Being 40 or older
- Being overweight
- Sitting for long periods
- Diabetes
You’re also more likely to experience sciatica if your job requires you to regularly lift heavy loads, twist your back, or drive a motor vehicle for extended periods.
How is sciatica diagnosed?
To diagnose sciatica, Dr. Eaddy reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including where the pain occurs, if it extends into other parts of your body, and if it responds to at-home treatments like rest or ice.
Next, Dr. Eaddy conducts an exam. During the exam, he checks your muscle strength and reflexes and has you perform a series of in-office exercises. If your symptoms get worse during these activities, it means you probably have sciatica.
If Dr. Eaddy suspects your pain is the result of a bone spur or a herniated disc, he might also order diagnostic imaging like X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan.
How is sciatica treated?
Treatment of sciatica depends on a variety of factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your daily life. Dr. Eaddy usually recommends conservative, minimally invasive treatments, like:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Muscle relaxants
- Anti-seizure medications
- Physical therapy
- Injections (i.e. corticosteroids)
- Activity modification
In most cases, a combination of these treatments is enough to provide significant relief. If your pain persists or gets worse, surgery might be necessary, but only as a last resort.
To explore the various treatment options for sciatica, make an appointment at the practice of Kenneth J Eaddy MD by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
