Does Sciatica Pain Switch Sides?

Anyone with sciatica is familiar with the burning or stabbing pain that radiates from the lower back, usually down just one leg. However, for some, the pain switches sides. 

While it's not typical for sciatica pain to switch sides, it does occur. Managing the pain typically requires physical therapy, medications, and, in some cases, surgery. 

At the NeuroSpine Center in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Phillip Henkin, an experienced neurosurgeon, provides intentional and effective treatment for anyone with sciatica.

If your sciatica pain switches sides, Dr. Henkin explains why here. He also touches on some common causes of sciatica and the best ways to manage the pain.

What causes sciatica?

The sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, runs from your lower back through your hips, backside, and down each leg. When this nerve is irritated, inflamed, or compressed, you'll experience some pain and discomfort.

People with sciatica describe the pain as a sharp or shooting sensation. The affected areas may also feel weak or numb. When you sit, stand, or walk for long periods, the pain may feel even worse.

While anyone can develop sciatica, it's more likely to occur amongst older people or if you have a job that requires you to do any heavy lifting or sit a lot.

Does sciatica switch sides?

The simple answer is yes, it can. But there are a few reasons why this may occur.

Multiple nerves are affected 

The sciatic nerve has multiple branches. Injury or inflammation can occur at any point along this very long nerve, which means a problem can occur on one side and later develop on the other. 

Different underlying causes

Sciatica has different triggers, from a herniated disc to bone spurs. If a herniated disc causes sciatica pain down your left leg and you later develop a bone spur in your right leg, you may experience sciatica pain in both legs.

Changes in your body 

In some cases, changes in your body, such as a change in posture or gait, can cause the pain to switch sides. People with sciatica avoid leaning on or stressing the leg where they're experiencing pain, putting excess strain on the other leg. Unfortunately, this strain can lead to sciatica in that leg.

Managing sciatica pain

The most effective way to manage sciatica is with lifestyle changes, medication, and, in severe cases, surgery.

Lifestyle changes

A healthy lifestyle isn’t complete without regular exercise. Despite the discomfort, this is even more important for sciatica. You should opt for low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga.

If your job requires you to sit for long periods, adjust your workstation to maintain proper posture throughout your workday and prevent straining your lower back.

Medication

Depending on its severity, Dr. Henkin typically recommends over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants to help you manage your pain. Sometimes, he administers corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and ease pain.

Surgery

If lifestyle changes, medication, and physical therapy fail, surgery may be your only other option. Dr. Henkin uses procedures such as microdiscectomy or laminectomy to relieve any pressure on your sciatic nerve.

Sciatica pain can switch sides, but this shouldn't cause you to panic. With the proper support from an expert neurosurgeon such as Dr. Henkin, you can get relief from the debilitating sciatica pain no matter what side it's on. Schedule a consultation online or call 813-651-3300 today.