Sciatica 101: Understanding and Undermining the Pain
Ever had back pain that travels down your leg? It may be caused by sciatica. According to the , sciatica isn’t a diagnosis. It’s a symptom.Ìý
How Sciatica DevelopsÌý
Stretching from your lower back to the foot, the sciatic nerve is your body’s largest nerve. It sends signals to various muscles, from your thigh to the bottom of your foot, allowing you to move when and how you want.Ìý
​​​​​When your sciatic nerve does its job properly, you go about daily life without a second thought. If sciatica sets in, that changes. Suddenly, you feel significant pain.Ìý
Though more likely to occur in men between 30 and 50 years of age, sciatica can affect anyone. In many cases, sciatica may arise due to one of the following:Ìý
- . Discs that normally cushion your vertebra bones leak or move out of place, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.Ìý
- Pelvic injury. Fracturing a bone in the pelvis can damage the sciatic nerve.Ìý
- Spinal stenosis. An opening through your spinal cord narrows and presses on the sciatic nerve.Ìý
- . A cancerous or noncancerous growth develops on the spine and compresses the sciatic nerve.Ìý
- . A bone in the spine slips out of place, pressing against the sciatic nerve.Ìý
No matter the cause, sciatica causes pain in the back and anywhere the sciatic nerve journeys. The classic symptom is a burning sensation, tingling or pins-and-needles going down the leg. You may also experience numbness and weakness.Ìý
These symptoms may get worse at certain times of the day or when sitting down or standing up. Finding the source of the problem is often the first step toward relief.Ìý
Uncovering the RootÌý
Diagnosing sciatica typically begins with a discussion of your medical history and a physical examination. If your pain lasts a long time or is extremely severe, your provider may order additional tests to get to the bottom of your issue.Ìý
The Physical ExamÌý
During your physical exam, your provider may have you do the following:Ìý
- Bend forward and backwardÌýÌý
- Lift your affected leg while lying downÌý
- Move your affected foot in different waysÌý
- Straighten and bend your affected kneeÌý
- Walk on your toesÌý
By performing these simple tasks, you help your provider determine the presence of sciatica and the root cause. Your provider may also test your reflexes and sensation in affected areas.Ìý
Additional Tests for SciaticaÌý
In the event your sciatica requires additional testing, you may undergo imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI. This is particularly helpful if your pain is caused by a bulging or herniated disc since imaging can provide a visualization of the disc.Ìý
Finding Sciatica ReliefÌý
As frustrating as sciatica pain can be, most of these symptoms will resolve naturally on their own without any need for intervention or surgery.Ìý
When the pain won’t go away, visit your primary care provider or a pain management specialist. These experts can help determine the cause of your sciatica and develop a treatment plan.Ìý
Depending on the source of your sciatica, you may benefit from a variety of treatment ​​​​approaches.Ìý
DIY Pain ReliefÌý
There are steps you can take to ease your sciatica pain on your own. To find relief in the comfort of your home, try the following:Ìý
- Cold and heat therapy. Apply an ice pack to the aching area off and on for the first two or three days. Then switch to a heating pad.Ìý
- Exercise. While it’s a good idea to lay off your regular exercise routine, it’s helpful to perform exercises that strengthen back and abdominal muscles.Ìý
- Over-the-counter pain relievers. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help take the edge off your pain.Ìý
- Smart movement. Cut back on physical activity for a couple of days, but don’t just lie in bed. Avoid twisting your back or lifting heavy objects for six weeks.Ìý
Seeking Help for Sciatica PainÌý
If time and home care don’t bring sciatica relief, seek professional help. Treatment options offered by ÈÕ±¾avÉ«ÇéƬ experts include:Ìý
- Medication. Oral medications help reduce pain, inflammation and burning and tingling sensations. Injected corticosteroid medications can help reduce inflammation caused by a herniated disc and bring temporary relief.Ìý
- Physical therapy. A physical therapist helps you perform special exercises to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, improve spinal alignment and reduce sciatica pain. Your provider may prescribe therapy after steroid injections for lasting relief.ÌýÌý
- Surgery. When conservative treatment doesn’t resolve sciatica or you have significant pain or weakness, surgery may be necessary. The type of surgery depends on the problem. Your surgeon may remove a bone or disc pressing against the sciatic nerve, open a tight space in your spinal column or correct a broken bone.Ìý
Still the Best TreatmentÌý
At some point in life, 80 percent of all Americans will experience lower back pain, according to the . Despite the odds, you can reduce your risk for back or leg pain brought on by sciatica. To sidestep pain tomorrow, take healthy steps today.Ìý
Exercising regularly and maintaining good core strength and good lift mechanics, such as lifting with your legs and not your back, are important to prevent sciatica from happening.Ìý
Need help managing back, leg or other pain? Find a doctor at ÈÕ±¾avÉ«ÇéƬ to lend a hand.Ìý