The term sciatica is used to indicate inflammation of the sciatic nerve. While normally the sciatic nerve does its job without trouble, once an inflammation of the nerve develops the individual becomes all too painfully aware of its presence. There are two sciatic nerves, each providing an information highway from the spinal cord through a leg. From the lumbosacral region of the lower back, these nerves pass behind the hip joint and extend down the legs to deliver information to and from the legs.
What is the sciatic nerve supposed to do?
Like most nerves the sciatic has two jobs: It relays instructions from the brain to the legs and sends sensory information back to the brain. Inflammation of the nerve interferes with both of these nerve functions. Due to a weaker impulse being sent to one leg, an individual may develope an uneven gait.
What is the source of sciatic pain?
Generally the cause of inflammation to the nerve is a herniated disc in the region of the sciatic nerve’s source. When a disc, whose purpose is to provide cushioning between vertebras, is put under too much pressure the interior of the disc bulges out affecting the nerve and precipitating inflammation. The inflammation is the body’s way of trying to protect itself. There are other less common causes among which are spinal spondylolisthesis, stenosis, and piriformis syndrome.
How will you know if you have sciatic?
* A tendency to take uneven steps
* Sharp electric-jolt type of pain in the upper hip or lower back on one side
* A dull ache aching feeling in a buttock or leg
* Shooting pain that travels down one buttock and down the leg
* A “catch” in the hip when walking
* Sensation of painful numbness like the pins-and-needles feeling of a limb that’s gone to sleep
* A weakness in one leg
Sciatica can range from mildly annoying to debilitating; in the more severe cases squatting, coughing or sneezing can result in a sharp temporary increase in pain.
Who is at risk for sciatica?
In theory any one can develop sciatica but in practice it usually first appears between the ages of 30 and 50, and is more likely to develop in those who are overweight and those who are regularly doing heavy lifting. It can appear suddenly precipitated by a specific action but can just as readily develop slowly without any specific causation.
What can be done for sciatica?
In very severe cases surgery to repair the disc might be necessary but usually after X-rays are taken and evaluated a doctor or chiropractor will initiate a series of exercises to strengthen your back and perhaps medication to reduce inflammation.
