Relief for Sciatica & Pinched Nerves at Sobel Spine

Decoding the Signals: Recognizing the Symptoms of Nerve Pinching

When nerves are compressed or irritated, they send out signals that manifest as a range of symptoms, including:

• Pain: This is the hallmark symptom, often described as sharp, shooting, burning, or radiating pain. Sciatica, for instance, typically causes pain that radiates down the back of the leg, often reaching the foot. The intensity and location of the pain can vary depending on the specific nerve root involved.

• Numbness and Tingling: These sensations occur when nerve signals are disrupted, leading to a loss of sensation or a pins-and-needles feeling in the affected area. The distribution of numbness and tingling can help pinpoint the affected nerve root.

• Muscle Weakness: Nerve compression can impair muscle function, resulting in weakness or difficulty controlling movement in the affected area. This can manifest as difficulty lifting the foot (foot drop) or weakness in the leg muscles.

• Reflex Changes: In some cases, nerve compression can alter reflexes, leading to diminished or exaggerated responses. This can be assessed during a neurological examination.

• Changes in bowel or bladder function: In rare cases, severe nerve compression can cause these symptoms, which require immediate medical attention. This is a sign of cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency.

A Tailored Approach to Relief: Comprehensive Treatment Options at Sobel Spine & Sports

At Sobel Spine & Sports, we believe in a multidisciplinary approach to pain management, combining conservative and interventional therapies to provide comprehensive care.

• Physical Therapy: Our experienced physical therapists will guide you through exercises to strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. They will also educate you on proper posture and body mechanics to prevent future injuries.

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. These medications can provide temporary relief while other therapies are implemented.

• Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the epidural space, reducing inflammation and pain around the affected nerves. This can provide significant pain relief and improve function.

• Surgical referral: If someone has significant weakness in the upper or lower limb Dr. Sobel may refer to an orthopedic spine surgeon or neurosurgeon if appropriate.

Epidural Steroid Injections: Precision and Targeted Relief

Epidural steroid injections, particularly transforaminal epidural injections, are a valuable tool in managing sciatica and radicular pain.

• Transforaminal Epidural Injections: This technique allows for precise delivery of medication to the targeted nerve root, maximizing pain relief while minimizing side effects.

• Procedure Details: Under fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray), Dr. Sobel carefully inserts a needle into the foramen, the opening through which the nerve root exits the spinal canal. This ensures accurate placement of the medication.

• Medication Delivery: A combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid is injected, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid reduces long-term inflammation.

Understanding the Potential Risks and Benefits:

While epidural steroid injections are generally safe, it's essential to be aware of potential risks, including:

• Infection: Although rare, infection at the injection site is possible.

• Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur, especially in patients taking blood thinners.

• Spinal Headache: This can occur if the dura mater is punctured.

• Nerve Damage: In rare cases, nerve damage can occur, although this is usually temporary.

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the medications used.

• Benefits: Pain reduction, increased function, decrease of inflammation.

Your Path to Pain Relief Starts Here: Taking the First Step

At Sobel Spine & Sports, we are dedicated to helping you find lasting relief from sciatica, pinched nerves, and radiculopathy. Dr. Jerry Sobel's extensive experience and personalized approach will guide you towards a pain-free future.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more active life. We are here to help you 

Unveiling the Culprits: Exploring the Causes of Sciatica and Nerve Impingement

Several factors can contribute to sciatica and nerve impingement, including:

• Herniated Discs: This occurs when the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a weakened annulus fibrosus, compressing nearby nerve roots. This is a common cause of sciatica and radiculopathy.

• Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, intervertebral discs can lose hydration and elasticity, leading to disc degeneration and potential nerve compression. This process can contribute to spinal stenosis and other degenerative conditions.

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to bone spurs or thickened ligaments, can compress the spinal cord and nerve roots. This condition is more common in older adults.

• Spondylolisthesis: This condition involves the slippage of one vertebra over another, potentially compressing nerves. This can occur due to congenital defects, trauma, or degenerative changes.

• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle, located in the buttock region, can compress the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica-like symptoms. This condition is often associated with muscle tightness or spasm.

• Trauma: Injuries to the spine can lead to fractures, dislocations, or disc herniations, resulting in nerve compression. This can occur from falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

• Spinal Tumors: Although rare, tumors within the spinal canal can compress nerves. These tumors can be benign or malignant.