Sciatica Care at UVM Health
Sciatica is a common type of pain that starts in the lower back and travels through the hip, buttock and down one leg. It occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated or pinched. While symptoms can be uncomfortable, most people improve with simple, nonsurgical treatments.
Why Choose UVM Health?
At University of Vermont Health, our orthopedic specialists and physical therapists work together to relieve pain, restore movement and help you get back on your feet. When you choose us for sciatica treatment, you are cared for by some of the top orthopedic experts in Vermont and northern New York.
As one of the region’s leading orthopedic programs, we offer:
- A patient-centered approach: Your care team takes time to understand your symptoms, goals and treatment preferences. We tailor care to your lifestyle so you can recover safely and confidently.
- Research-driven care: As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, our orthopedic providers are involved in ongoing research and innovation. This ensures you have access to up-to-date, evidence-based treatment options.
What Causes Sciatica?
Some factors can increase the chance of developing sciatica:
- A herniated or bulging disc in the spine
- Age‑related changes in the spine
- Jobs or activities that involve heavy lifting or long periods of sitting
- Poor posture or weak core muscles
- Being overweight, which adds stress to the spine
- Previous back injury
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica usually affects one side of the body. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Pain that starts in the lower back or buttock that travels down the leg
- Sharp, burning or shooting pain
- Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing or sneezing
Diagnosing Sciatica
In addition to the physical examination and your symptoms, imaging scans can help us confirm a diagnosis of sciatica. They are also important for ruling out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms. Imaging scans include:
- X-ray: An X-ray gives us clear, detailed imagines of your spine. It can also detect if there is something pressing on the nerve.
- MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging scans use powerful magnet technology to obtain high-resolution, cross-sectional images. It is usually a longer test than an X-ray and shows other structures such as soft tissue.
- CT scan: Computed tomography scans may be done with a contrast, where we inject a special dye into your spine before taking the images. The contrast solutions highlights the abnormalities, making them easier to see.
Sciatica Treatment
Treatment for sciatica focuses on relieving pain and helping you return to normal activity. Your care plan may include:
- Rest and gentle movement
- Physical therapy to improve strength, posture and flexibility
- Pain relief medicines or anti‑inflammatory medications
- Heat or ice therapy
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
Surgery is uncommon but may be considered if:
- Pain is severe or worsening
- There is significant weakness
- You experience loss of bowel or bladder control
Your care team will work closely with you to choose the best treatment for your needs.
Locations Near You
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187 Park Street
Suite 2
Malone, NY 12953-1233
192 Tilley Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403-4440
1311 Barre Montpelier Road
Suite 400
Berlin, VT 05602
1311 Barre Montpelier Road
Suite 400
Berlin, VT 05602
76 McNeil Road
Suite 2
Waterbury Center, VT 05677-7162
