Sciatic pain, also known as sciatica, refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Sciatic pain can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. It is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, usually due to a herniated disc, bone spur on the spine, or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine).
Here are some common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sciatic pain:
Causes
1. Herniated Disc: When the soft inner core of a disc in your spine pushes through the outer shell, it can press on the adjacent nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve.
2. Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.
3. Piriformis Syndrome:The piriformis muscle in the buttocks can sometimes irritate or compress the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica.
4. Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
5. Muscle Strain: Inflammation or tension in the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve can cause sciatic pain.
Symptoms:
Sharp or searing pain: Radiating from the lower back to the leg (typically one side).
Numbness or tingling: Along the sciatic nerve pathway in the leg.
Weakness: Difficulty moving the leg or foot.
Worsened pain: After sitting or standing for long periods.
Burning sensation: Along the leg.
If your dealing with Sciatic pain call and see how chiropractic can help get you back doing the activities you love pain free!
