![\"Sciatica:](\"https:\/\/spinesurgerypv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ciatica-Causas-y-Tratamiento.jpg\" "\\"Ci\u00e1tica")
<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment in Puerto Vallarta<\/h3>\n
Sciatica is pain that originates in the lower back and radiates down the leg, following the path of the sciatic nerve. In most cases, it improves with conservative treatment; however, when pain persists or is accompanied by weakness, it is time for a specialist evaluation.<\/p>\n
What is sciatica and why does it cause leg pain?<\/h2>\n
The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the body, running from the lower back down to the foot. When something compresses or irritates this nerve\u2014usually near the lumbar spine\u2014the pain does not remain localized; instead, it travels along the entire length of the nerve, causing pain, tingling, or numbness that can extend to the calf or foot.<\/p>\n
It is important to understand that sciatica is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying spinal issue\u2014most commonly a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.<\/p>\n
Common causes of sciatica<\/h2>\n
Among the most frequent causes of sciatic nerve compression are:<\/p>\n
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- Lumbar disc herniation pressing directly on the nerve root<\/li>\n
- Spinal stenosis, which narrows the space through which the nerve passes<\/li>\n
- Spondylolisthesis (displacement of one vertebra over another)<\/li>\n
- Piriformis syndrome, where a deep hip muscle irritates the nerve<\/li>\n
- Age-related joint wear and tear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When sciatica pain requires seeing a specialist<\/h2>\n
Not all leg pain requires surgery; in fact, most cases resolve without it. However, there are signs indicating it is time to seek a specialized evaluation without delay:<\/p>\n
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- Pain persists for more than 6 weeks despite conservative treatment<\/li>\n
- There is noticeable weakness in the leg or foot<\/li>\n
- Loss of bladder or bowel control occurs (an urgent warning sign)<\/li>\n
- Pain significantly interferes with sleep or daily activities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Treatment options: from conservative care to surgery<\/h2>\n
Sciatica treatment follows a stepped approach. It almost always begins with physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and\u2014in some cases\u2014epidural injections to reduce inflammation around the nerve.<\/p>\n
When these options are insufficient, or when significant compression confirmed by MRI is present, surgery is considered. Today, many cases of sciatica caused by a herniated disc can be resolved using minimally invasive techniques, which offer considerably shorter recovery times than traditional open surgery.<\/p>\n
About Dr. Ricardo Mart\u00ednez P\u00e9rez<\/h2>\n
Dr. Ricardo Mart\u00ednez P\u00e9rez is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery; he practices at OSSUM Traumatolog\u00eda y Ortopedia Avanzada in Puerto Vallarta. He holds certification from the CMOT, is a member of AMCICO, FEMECOT, and AO Spine, and has published peer-reviewed research in indexed medical journals.<\/p>\n
If sciatica pain is already affecting your daily life, schedule an evaluation to identify the exact cause and the treatment options available for your specific case.<\/p>\n
To schedule your consultation, visit the contact<\/a> page or message us via WhatsApp at +52 322 403 3000.<\/p>\n<\/div>