Compression of the sciatic nerve causes a group of symptoms which can be quite painful. This pain which starts in the lower back, often radiates down the leg on the affected side to the heel. Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot may progress to muscle weakness and difficulty in controlling or moving the affected limb. Usually one sided, the pain can be debilitating and progressive.

Sciatica is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. Its roots branch off the spinal cord at the 4^th or 5^th lumbar vertebrae (L4, L5). Thorough and complete diagnostic tests must be done to identify the cause of the pain. Often a bulging or herniated disc is the cause of the problem. There are 25 vertebrae which make up the spinal column and between each are intervertebral discs. These discs act as cushions, absorbing shock and allowing the spine to twist, turn, and bend.  Healthy discs are tough cartilage pads that are thick, flexible, and contain a jelly-like substance. An injury to the back can cause the disc to bulge, rupture or tear, resulting in a herniated disc. When the inner jelly-like material is forced out, the disc gradually flattens, similar to a dry sponge and causes pressure on the nerve.

Treatment is aimed at relieving the inflammation and pain and conservative measures should be tried first.  The most effective methods may be a combination of:

·       Spinal Decompression

·       Physical Therapy

·       Chiropractic Treatment

·       Massage Therapy

·       Medication including ANSAID drugs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

·       Epidural Steroid Injections

·       Acupuncture and Biofeedback

·       Electrical Stimulation

·       Ultrasound Treatment

·       Surgery as a Last Resort

A treatment method that is gaining favor is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression where recent studies show a 71% to 90% success rate. One study reports that 86% of its participants experienced a complete resolution of their symptoms or an immediate decrease of pain after treatment. Utilizing the DRX 9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System, a computerized technology program is formulated to treat the patient’s spinal disorder. Through a series of treatments, the spine is gently stretched, slowly drawing the vertebrae apart, gradually reducing the pressure on the affected areas.

Dr. John Leslie, of the Mayo Clinic, presented a study in September 2007 at the annual conference of the American Academy of Pain Management. His study evaluated a group of patients who had suffered more than 10 years of chronic back pain. After two weeks of treatment with the DRX 9000, there was a 50% reduction in the patients’ pain. After completion of six weeks of therapy, there was a success rate of 88.9%. As the numbers of patients who are treated successfully with the DRX 9000 grows, it becomes an option that should be considered by those suffering from sciatica and chronic back pain.