This highly engaging title offers a concise, state-of-the-art overview of the management of sciatica and chronic pain.  Written by a well-known neurologist, the book explores the multifaceted approach to the management of sciatica and chronic pain from many viewpoints, including the pharmacologic and surgical, as well as less orthodox methods.  In discussing the many different aspects of pain - including neural networks, neural transmitters and genetic viewpoints - the book also provides a thorough review of how various factors interact to make us perceive pain.  Importantly, the neuroscience and medical jargon that goes with the field is minimized by the author by defining terms as they are introduced and providing a glossary with definitions of key terms.  Contributing to the unique nature of this highly instructive book, three patients with sciatica and chronic pain are followed serially throughout the text to illustrate important concepts that are discussed.  A wide range of charts, figures and tables help clarify new concepts as well.  Practical and illustrative, Sciatica and Chronic Pain: Past, Present and Future will be of great interest to a wide audience, including medical trainees and practicing physicians at all stages of their careers.  Patients may find the book of significant value as well.

Introduction.- Nerves and the detection and perception of pain.- What causes sciatica?.- Initial management of sciatica.- Imaging the back and sciatic nerve.- Anesthetics, steroids and surgery for sciatica.- Why does pain persist in so many cases?.- Treatment of chronic neuropathic pain.- Promising new treatments for chronic pain.- Some final thoughts.