Sciatica is one of the most common and misunderstood causes of lower back and leg pain. It often begins subtly—with occasional tingling, burning, or aching down one leg—but can quickly escalate into severe pain and functional limitations. If you’re experiencing symptoms of sciatica, it’s important not to ignore them. Early evaluation by a spine specialist can make the difference between short-term discomfort and long-term disability.
At Nadora Healthcare, patients have access to two of Colorado’s most experienced spine professionals—Dr. Scott Dhupar, a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, and Dr. K. Soraya Heidari, a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon. Together, they lead care at Colorado’s only Spine Center of Excellence, delivering expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for spinal conditions like sciatica.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through the hips and down each leg. Contrary to popular belief, sciatica isn’t a diagnosis in itself—it’s a symptom of an underlying problem in the lumbar spine.
The most common causes of sciatica include:
- Herniated discs pressing on the nerve root
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
- Facet joint inflammation
- Traumatic injury or repetitive stress
Because sciatica can stem from several different spinal issues, expert evaluation by a spine specialist is essential for effective and lasting treatment.
Signs It’s Time to See a Spine Specialist
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule a consultation with a spine specialist at Nadora Healthcare:
- Persistent lower back pain that radiates into the buttock, thigh, or calf
- Burning, tingling, or “electric shock” sensations in one leg
- Numbness or weakness in the foot, ankle, or leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing
- Limited mobility that interferes with work, walking, or sleep
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency requiring immediate attention)
Early intervention leads to better outcomes. Waiting too long can allow the nerve irritation to become more severe, potentially requiring more aggressive treatment.
Diagnosis at Nadora Healthcare’s Spine Center of Excellence
When you meet with Dr. Dhupar or Dr. Heidari, you can expect a thorough and precise diagnostic process. This typically includes:
- Detailed clinical history and symptom review
- Neurological examination to test strength, reflexes, and sensation
- On-site imaging (such as X-rays or MRI) to visualize disc health and nerve compression
- Evaluation of spinal alignment, flexibility, and mechanical stressors
This level of diagnostic accuracy allows Nadora’s spine specialists to create targeted, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle.
Sciatica Treatment Options from a Spine Specialist
Treatment for sciatica depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. At Nadora Healthcare, most cases are treated non-surgically first:
Non-Surgical Care
- Oral anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants
- Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments
- Referral-based physical therapy focused on core strength and mobility
- Epidural steroid injections for inflammation relief
- Medial branch blocks or facet joint injections
- Radiofrequency ablation for persistent nerve-related pain
Surgical Care
If conservative treatment fails or if the nerve is significantly compressed, surgical intervention may be recommended. Procedures include:
- Microdiscectomy – Removal of herniated disc fragments
- Laminectomy or decompression – To relieve spinal canal narrowing
- Lumbar fusion – To stabilize the spine in cases of instability
- Artificial disc replacement – For select patients with disc-related sciatica
Minimally invasive techniques allow for faster recovery, less blood loss, and reduced postoperative pain.
Trust Nadora Healthcare for Spine Care That Delivers Results
Sciatica doesn’t have to control your life. With fellowship-trained spine surgeons and a full spectrum of treatment options, Nadora Healthcare offers a level of care unmatched in the region. Whether your condition requires conservative management or surgical expertise, you’ll receive a precise diagnosis, compassionate care, and a treatment plan designed for long-term relief.
Schedule Your Appointment With a Spine Specialist Today
If you’re suffering from symptoms of sciatica, don’t wait. Schedule an evaluation with a spine specialist at Nadora Healthcare and take the first step toward restoring your mobility, strength, and quality of life.
