Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Relief Options, and When Surgery Makes Sense

If you’ve experienced sharp, shooting pain that runs from your lower back down the back of your leg, you may be dealing with sciatica. This common condition affects millions of people each year—and while it often resolves with conservative treatment, severe or persistent cases may require expert intervention.

At his Dallas-based spine practice, Dr. Craig C. Callewart, MD helps patients find lasting relief from sciatica through comprehensive diagnosis, non-surgical care, and, when needed, surgery.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. It typically begins in the lower back or buttocks and radiates down one leg, sometimes reaching the foot.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp or burning pain down the leg
• Numbness or tingling in the buttock, thigh, or foot
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg
• Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or movement

Sciatica is not a condition itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying spinal problem.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is usually caused by a compression of a lumbar spinal nerve root, most commonly due to:

• Herniated disc (also called slipped or bulging disc)
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebra over another)
• Trauma or injury
• In rare cases: spinal tumors or infections

Dr. Callewart uses advanced imaging and clinical evaluations to accurately identify the source of nerve irritation.

Conservative Treatments for Sciatica

In most cases, sciatica can be treated successfully without surgery. Non-surgical options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy to relieve pressure on the nerve
• Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Lifestyle changes including posture correction, weight management, and ergonomic improvements

Dr. Callewart’s approach emphasizes relieving symptoms while addressing the root cause, not just masking the pain.

When is Surgery for Sciatica Recommended?

Surgery may be considered if:

• Pain is severe or disabling
• Symptoms persist for 6+ weeks despite conservative care
• There is progressive leg weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control
• Imaging confirms nerve compression from a herniated disc or spinal narrowing

Surgical options offered by Dr. Callewart include:

• Microdiscectomy: Removes a portion of a herniated disc pressing on a nerve root.
• Laminectomy: Removes bone or tissue narrowing the spinal canal.
• Spinal fusion: Stabilizes the spine if instability is contributing to nerve irritation.

Why Choose Dr. Craig C. Callewart, MD?

With over 25 years of experience treating spine disorders, Dr. Callewart offers:

• Conservative-first care that prioritizes non-surgical solutions
• Expert surgical intervention only when absolutely necessary
• Personalized, one-on-one treatment in an independent setting

Patients value his thorough diagnostic process and compassionate approach to care.

Get Relief from Sciatica—Start with the Right Diagnosis

If you’re struggling with persistent lower back and leg pain, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Dr. Craig C. Callewart can help determine the cause and guide you toward lasting relief—without unnecessary surgery.

📞 Call (214) 271-4585 or visit www.c3spine.com to schedule a consultation today.