Sciatica — radiating pain from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg — affects millions of Americans each year. When conservative care isn't enough, Dr. Bhakta offers advanced interventional treatments that target the source of nerve compression for lasting relief.
Common Symptoms
Shooting leg pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, pain worsening with sitting
Common Causes
Herniated disc, spinal stenosis, bone spur, degenerative disc disease
Treatments at PDTC
When to See a Specialist
Pain persisting beyond 4–6 weeks, severe pain, numbness/weakness, bladder/bowel changes
Sciatica is not a diagnosis in itself — it's a symptom of an underlying condition that irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve, the longest and thickest nerve in the body. When compressed or inflamed, the result is pain ranging from a mild ache to sharp, burning discomfort that typically affects one side of the body.
Most commonly caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative spinal changes. While many cases improve with conservative care within a few weeks, persistent or severe sciatica often requires interventional treatment.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and duration of your symptoms.
The first-line interventional treatment for sciatica. Fluoroscopy-guided steroid medication delivered to the exact site of nerve inflammation.
Learn about ESI →For chronic sciatica with a facet joint component, RFA provides 6–18 months of relief by disrupting nerve signals.
Learn about RFA →For complex or refractory sciatica, tiny electrodes placed near the affected nerve modulate pain signals.
Learn about PNS →