Sciatica vs. Herniated Disc: What Are the Differences?
Sciatica and herniated discs are closely related but have distinct differences in symptoms and causes. Sciatica often results from a herniated disc compressing the sciatic nerve, causing pain radiating down the leg. Dr. Darius Zagunis M.D. provides expert diagnosis and treatment for both conditions, helping patients understand their unique situation and offering effective solutions to relieve pain and improve mobility. Early evaluation is crucial for optimal recovery. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are at 3903 Wiseman Blvd, Ste 117, San Antonio, TX 78251.


Table of Contents:
What Is the Difference Between a Herniated Disc and Sciatica?
What Are the Main Causes of Sciatica Compared to a Herniated Disc?
How Can You Tell If Your Pain Is From Sciatica or a Herniated Disc?
What Part of the Body Does Sciatica Primarily Affect Compared to a Herniated Disc?
Are Sciatica and Herniated Discs Considered the Same Condition?
A herniated disc occurs when the inner core of an intervertebral disc pushes through its tougher outer layer, potentially irritating nearby nerves and causing pain. Most commonly affecting the lumbar spine, it can result from natural degeneration, injury, or overuse. At San Antonio Pain Consultants, advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and CT scans are used to identify and assess disc herniation. Sciatica, on the other hand, is not a condition but a symptom characterized by pain that travels from the lower back to the legs along the sciatic nerve.
It is often caused by a herniated disc compressing the sciatic nerve but may also result from other issues like spinal stenosis or piriformis syndrome. The key difference is that a herniated disc is a specific structural issue, while sciatica is a symptom of nerve compression. Herniated disc symptoms are localized, whereas sciatica pain radiates along the nerve pathway.
We ensure accurate diagnosis through detailed evaluations and advanced imaging. For herniated discs, we offer conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, and epidural injections, with surgical collaboration for severe cases. Sciatica treatment is tailored to its cause, including pain management, physical therapy, and surgical interventions if needed. Our comprehensive approach focuses on effective relief and optimal patient outcomes for both conditions.
Sciatica is a symptom of underlying spinal issues, causing pain along the sciatic nerve, which passes through the legs, buttocks, and hips after leaving the lower back. At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we focus on identifying and treating the root causes of sciatica, including herniated discs, where the inner disc material presses on the sciatic nerve; Piriformis syndrome, in which the sciatic nerve is irritated by the piriformis muscle, and spinal stenosis, in which the spinal canal narrows. Other causes include pregnancy, tumors, infections, and spondylolisthesis, all evaluated through comprehensive diagnostics.
Herniated discs, also known as slipped or ruptured discs, can cause localized back pain or sciatica if they compress nearby nerves. Factors contributing to herniated discs include age-related degeneration, trauma, repetitive strain, improper lifting, genetic predisposition, obesity, and poor posture.
At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we emphasize a holistic and personalized treatment strategy. Our services include:
● Advanced Imaging and Diagnostics: To accurately identify the cause of your pain.
● Non-Surgical Interventions: Such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and pain management techniques.
● Minimally Invasive Procedures: For cases requiring surgical intervention, we offer state-of-the-art minimally invasive options.
● Comprehensive Pain Management Plans: Tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the most effective care.
We specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions like sciatica and herniated discs. Understanding the differences between these two common sources of pain is crucial for providing effective care and alleviating discomfort.
Sciatica is a symptom caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, running from the lower back through the buttocks and down the leg. Symptoms include sharp or burning pain along the nerve’s pathway, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg, and pain that worsens with sitting or sneezing. When a spinal disc’s inner gel pushes through, a herniated disc hits its outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves. Symptoms may include localized back or neck pain, radiating pain mimicking sciatica, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in affected areas.
We provide comprehensive care to differentiate and treat these conditions. Through thorough physical evaluations and advanced imaging like MRIs or CT scans, we accurately diagnose herniated discs and assess nerve involvement. Our customized treatments include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications, and surgical options when necessary. With a patient-centered approach, we aim for early intervention to relieve pain, prevent complications, and enhance quality of life.
San Antonio Pain Consultants, Dr. Darius Zagunis M.D specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like sciatica and herniated discs, which are common sources of pain and discomfort for many patients.
The hallmark of sciatica is pain that starts in the lower back and follows the sciatic nerve as it passes through the buttocks and the back of the leg. This nerve travels down each leg from the lower spine via the pelvis. A herniated disc, a bone spur, or spinal stenosis are common causes of sciatica, which is characterized by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve.
A herniated disc, on the other hand, happens when a spinal disc’s inner gel-like core pushes out through an outer layer rupture. Although this disorder can affect any area of the spine, it most frequently affects the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) regions. If a herniated disc is located in the lower back, it may compress the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica-like symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs. However, herniated discs can also cause localized pain at the site of the herniation and impact the spinal cord or nearby nerve roots, depending on their location.
We provide comprehensive evaluations to distinguish between sciatica and herniated discs and develop personalized treatment plans. Our approach may include physical therapy, medication, or minimally invasive procedures to alleviate pain and improve function. Understanding the specific nature of your condition is the first step toward effective treatment and a pain-free life.
At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we understand that back pain can significantly impact your quality of life. Two common conditions that affect many of our patients are sciatica and herniated discs. While they are often confused, these conditions have distinct characteristics and implications for treatment.
Sciatica is a set of symptoms, not a diagnosis, characterized by pain, numbness, or tingling along the sciatic nerve pathway, extending from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and legs. It is often caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or spondylolisthesis. At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we specialize in pinpointing the root cause of sciatica to provide targeted relief.
A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, potentially compressing nearby nerves. While not all herniated discs cause symptoms, they are responsible for up to 90% of sciatica cases. Sciatica and herniated discs are closely connected, but not all herniated discs cause sciatica, and sciatica can result from other spinal conditions.
Key differences include sciatica’s radiating nerve pain compared to localized pain from herniated discs. Comprehensive diagnostics ensure accurate identification and treatment of your symptoms.
We emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Our healthcare professionals will work closely with you to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Understanding the differences between sciatica and herniated discs is key to finding the right treatment for your pain. Left untreated, these conditions can worsen and significantly impact your quality of life. Seeking expert care early can help you regain control of your mobility and comfort. Don’t let pain limit your potential—take action today. Dr. Darius Zagunis M.D. and the team at San Antonio Pain Consultants P.A. are here to provide comprehensive care for sciatica and herniated discs. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are at 3903 Wiseman Blvd, Ste 117, San Antonio, TX 78251. We serve patients from San Antonio TX, Helotes TX, Alamo Ranch TX, Leon Valley TX, Shavano Park TX, Balcones Heights TX, Fair Oaks TX, Fair Oaks Ranch TX, Castroville TX, and surrounding areas.


Conditions We Treat
▸ Back & Spine Pain
▸ Herniated Disc Treatment
▸ Sciatica
▸ Neck Pain
▸ Knee Pain
▸ Arthritis Pain
▸ Arm & Shoulder Pain
▸ Abdominal & Pelvic Pain
▸ Headaches & Migraines
▸ Hip Pain
▸ Neuropathy
▸ Cancer Pain