Sciatic nerve is one of the largest and most important nerves in the human body. It is formed by the union of 5 nerve roots starting from the lower spine, then passing deep through your buttock, down to the back of your thigh until the heel and sole of the foot.
Sciatic nerve provide two (2) function to our body:
- Motor function: Help your muscle leg and feets to move
- Sensory function: Helps you to feel the sensation in your leg
What makes the sciatic nerve roots?
Five (5) different roots make up your sciatic nerve.
- 2 never roots from your lower back
- 3 nerve roots from your sacrum (tailbone)
All the roots on the left side combine to form your left sciatic nerve while all the roots on the right side combine to form your right sciatic nerve.
What condition can affect the sciatic nerve?
People often use the word “sciatica pain” to explain the pain that travels from their back, buttock to the sole of the feets. Cause of this sciatica pain are varies and stated as below:
Spinal causes:
- Bone spurs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated disk (slipped disc)
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
Non spinal causes:
- Piriformis syndrome
- Pregnancy
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Pelvic tumor
Trauma to the leg
Want to know about Sciatica pain?
Does the pain you’re experiencing really come from the Sciatica Nerve?
Read our next blog!
Contact us now to get further examination on your condition!
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, and it runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of each leg. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause pain, numbness, and tingling sensations.
Symptoms of Sciatica
The symptoms of sciatica may vary from person to person. Some people may experience mild pain, while others may experience severe pain. The pain can be felt in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. Some of the common symptoms of sciatica include:
Pain: The most common symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks and down the back of the leg. The pain may be sharp, burning, or stabbing.
Numbness: People with sciatica may experience numbness or tingling sensations in the affected leg.
Weakness: Some people with sciatica may experience weakness in the affected leg. This may make it difficult to walk or stand.
Difficulty standing: People with sciatica may find it difficult to stand for long periods of time due to the pain.
Bowel or bladder problems: In rare cases, sciatica can cause bowel or bladder problems. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is a herniated disc in the lower back. Other causes of sciatica include:
Spinal stenosis: This is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves.
Degenerative disc disease: This is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine deteriorate over time.
Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition where one vertebra slips out of place, putting pressure on the nerves.
Piriformis syndrome: This is a condition where the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Trauma: Trauma to the lower back can cause sciatica.
Tumors: Tumors in the spine can put pressure on the nerves, causing sciatica.
Diagnosis of Sciatica
If you experience symptoms of sciatica, your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for signs of nerve damage. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Treatment of Sciatica
The treatment for sciatica depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In most cases, conservative treatments are effective in relieving symptoms. These treatments may include:
Rest: Resting the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Ice or heat therapy: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help relieve pain and improve mobility.
Chiropractic care: Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pain and improve mobility.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help relieve pain and improve mobility.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerves.
Prevention of Sciatica
You can reduce your risk of developing sciatica by following these tips:
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the nerves in the lower back, increasing the risk of sciatica.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles in the back and reduce the risk of sciatica.
Take breaks: If you have a job that requires sitting or standing for long periods of time, take breaks to stretch and move around.
Wear comfortable shoes: Shoes with good arch support can help reduce the risk of sciatica.
Conclusion
Sciatica can be a painful and debilitating condition, but it is treatable. If you experience symptoms of sciatica, be sure to seek medical attention. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life. And remember, taking steps to prevent sciatica can help reduce your risk of developing this condition in the first place.