Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. This pain is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve12.
Symptoms
- Pain: Typically radiates from the lower back to the buttock and down the back of the leg.
- Numbness or tingling: Often felt in the leg or foot.
- Weakness: In the affected leg or foot.
- Worsening pain: When sitting, standing up, or bending forward.
Causes
- Herniated disk: The most common cause, where a disk in the spine bulges out and presses on the nerve.
- Bone spurs: Overgrowth of bone on the vertebrae.
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal.
- Piriformis syndrome: A muscle in the buttocks irritates the sciatic nerve.
- Injury: Direct injury to the nerve.
Treatment
- Self-care: Rest, hot or cold packs, and gentle stretching.
- Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and sometimes antidepressants.
- Physical therapy: Exercises to improve posture and strengthen the muscles supporting your back.
- Surgery: In severe cases, to relieve pressure on the nerve12.
Prevention
- Regular exercise: Strengthening the core muscles.
- Proper posture: Especially when sitting.
- Lifting techniques: Using your legs rather than your back.
If you have any specific questions or need advice on managing sciatica, feel free to ask!