Sciatica Pain Relief & Treatment I 360 Orthopedics

Sciatica Pain Relief: What Works (and When to See a Specialist)

If you’ve ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that runs from your lower back down your leg, you may have experienced sciatica. It’s more common than many people realize — studies estimate that up to 40% of people will develop sciatica during their lifetime (Harvard Health).

While mild sciatica sometimes improves with rest and self-care, persistent symptoms may signal that it’s time to see a specialist. At 360 Orthopedics, with locations in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch, our team of spine and pain management doctors are dedicated to helping patients find lasting relief.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica isn’t a condition itself but rather a set of symptoms caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve — the body’s longest nerve, running from the lower back through the hips and down each leg.

Common causes include:

• Herniated discs pressing on the nerve
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Bone spurs or arthritis in the spine

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Common Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica usually affects one side of the body. Symptoms may include:

• Radiating pain from the lower back into the buttock and leg
• Burning, sharp, or shooting pain
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg
• Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing, or bending

If your pain lasts longer than a week, or interferes with your daily activities, it may be time to seek professional care.

At-Home Relief vs. When to See a Doctor

For many patients, initial self-care can provide short-term relief:

• Alternating heat and ice
• Gentle stretches and light activity
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Posture adjustments and avoiding prolonged sitting

But if symptoms don’t improve, worsen over time, or include leg weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder/bowel control, medical evaluation is essential. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications.

Treatment Options at 360 Orthopedics

At our Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch clinics, our specialists provide a comprehensive range of treatment options:

• Non-surgical approaches
  • Targeted physical therapy programs
  • Prescription medications for pain and inflammation
  • Epidural injections to reduce swelling and irritation around the sciatic nerve
  • Facet injections to relieve pain caused by inflamed spinal joints
  • Advanced Regenerative Medicine (PRP) therapies
• Surgical options (for severe or persistent cases)
  • Minimally invasive procedures to relieve nerve compression
  • Spine surgery for significant herniation or stenosis

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Doctor Spotlight: Meet Your Sciatica Relief Team

At 360 Orthopedics, our specialists in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch are focused on relieving pain and restoring mobility for patients suffering from sciatica. Here’s how each of our providers helps patients find relief:

• Dr. Douglas Constant, MD – Board-certified in pain management, Dr. Constant provides advanced interventional treatments for sciatica, including spinal and facet injections, nerve ablations, Vertiflex®, MILD (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression), spinal cord and peripheral nerve stimulation, and Intracept procedures. His expertise helps patients reduce nerve compression and find lasting relief from sciatic pain.
• Dr. Justin Raye, DO – A board-certified physician in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and interventional pain management, Dr. Raye specializes in diagnosing and treating complex spine conditions, including sciatica. He integrates conservative care with interventional approaches and draws on research experience in spinal stenosis and regenerative therapies to provide patients with comprehensive treatment plans.
• Dr. Ashot Kotcharian, MD – Board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and fellowship-trained in interventional spine and sports medicine, Dr. Kotcharian treats sciatica through diagnostic and fluoroscopic-guided spinal procedures such as steroid injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency denervation. His approach helps reduce nerve irritation and restore mobility for patients with persistent sciatic pain.

FAQs About Sciatica

How long does sciatica usually last?
Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks, but severe or recurring cases can persist for months without treatment.

Can sciatica go away on its own?
Sometimes, especially if it’s caused by temporary inflammation. However, recurring or worsening symptoms often need professional care.

What’s the fastest way to relieve sciatica pain?
Short-term relief can come from rest, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications. For lasting results, patients may need targeted physical therapy, injections, or advanced interventions.

When should I worry about sciatica?
If you experience leg weakness, numbness, or changes in bladder/bowel control, seek immediate care. Otherwise, if pain lasts more than 1–2 weeks, schedule an evaluation.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

Sciatica may be common, but living with it doesn’t have to be. With advanced diagnostics, non-surgical options, and a team of specialists dedicated to your recovery, 360 Orthopedics is here to help you move without pain.

Call us today at 941-360-2233 or book your appointment online to schedule a visit at our Sarasota, Venice, or Lakewood Ranch office.