Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the body—gets irritated or compressed. This nerve runs from the lower spine through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. When something puts pressure on it, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or muscle inflammation, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms.

Dr. Bansal approaches sciatica and nerve compression with a comprehensive, patient-specific strategy that focuses on identifying the exact source of nerve irritation and relieving it effectively. Treatment may include a combination of advanced non-surgical therapies and, when necessary, minimally invasive surgical techniques designed to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.

Common symptoms treated include:

  • Lower back pain:
    This is often the starting point of sciatica. The pain may be dull, sharp, or burning and can worsen with prolonged sitting, bending, or sudden movements. It may also be accompanied by stiffness or reduced flexibility in the lower spine.

  • Radiating leg pain (sciatic pain):
    One of the hallmark signs of sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back down through the buttock and into one leg. This pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe, shooting pain that interferes with daily activities like walking or standing.

  • Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot:
    Compression of the nerve can disrupt normal nerve signals, leading to a loss of sensation or muscle strength. Patients may feel heaviness in the leg or difficulty in lifting the foot (a condition sometimes referred to as “foot drop”).

  • Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation:
    Many patients describe a prickling or electric-like sensation along the path of the nerve. This can be constant or intermittent and may worsen with certain positions or movements.

  • Difficulty with movement and posture:
    Sciatica can make it uncomfortable to sit, stand, or walk for long periods. Patients often shift their posture to relieve pressure, which can sometimes lead to additional strain on other parts of the body.

Treatment approach:

  • Dr. Bansal’s goal is not just to manage pain but to address the underlying cause of nerve compression. Non-surgical treatments may include physiotherapy, targeted exercises, medications, and image-guided injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the nerve. For patients who do not respond to conservative treatments, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended to decompress the nerve while preserving surrounding structures.

With timely diagnosis and the right treatment plan, most patients experience significant relief and can return to their normal activities with improved mobility and quality of life.