Medically reviewed by Derek Wimmer, PA Updated
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve — from the lower back into the buttock and leg — often from nerve compression. Wimmer treats it non-surgically after identifying the underlying source, using Wharton's Jelly with mesenchymal stem cells, PRP, peptides, and image-guided injections among the options, alongside non-surgical spinal decompression to ease pressure on the nerve.
| What it is | Radiating nerve pain (back to leg) |
|---|---|
| Common cause | Nerve compression / disc |
| Key options | Wharton's Jelly with mesenchymal stem cells, PRP, peptides, injections |
| Goal | Relieve nerve pressure non-surgically |
Common causes & symptoms
- Pain radiating from the low back into the buttock or leg
- Tingling, burning, or numbness down the leg
- Pain worsened by sitting or certain movements
- Weakness or reduced tolerance for activity
When to seek care
If sciatica is limiting your activity, lingering for more than a couple of weeks, waking you at night, or causing swelling or instability, it's worth a proper evaluation. Early, accurate assessment often opens up more — and less invasive — options.
How we evaluate it
Your visit begins with an in-office evaluation, with imaging — ultrasound or fluoroscopy — when it's needed, so we can see the area clearly. Occasionally we'll arrange additional imaging elsewhere. From there, Derek builds a personalized, honest plan — and walks you through the options for your situation.
Non-surgical options we may consider
- Wharton's Jelly with mesenchymal stem cells — an umbilical-derived allograft for selected joint and soft-tissue pain in the spine, discussed candidly
- PRP — platelet-rich plasma to support your body's own repair signaling
- Peptides — targeted peptides such as BPC-157 to support recovery and tissue resilience
- Injections — targeted, image-guided delivery when appropriate
- Non-surgical spinal decompression — to ease pressure on the nerve
- Activity guidance — to calm symptoms and prevent flares
Keeping you active
For golfers, pickleball and tennis players, boaters, and active retirees, the goal isn't just less pain — it's getting back to the life you love and staying there. That's the heart of how we plan your care.
Terms to know
- Spinal decompression
- A non-surgical treatment that applies controlled traction to the spine.
- Nerve block
- A targeted injection intended to interrupt pain signals from a selected nerve or area.
- Fluoroscopy
- Real-time X-ray imaging used to guide selected procedures.
