Sciatica is a Common Condition with a Simple Solution

Sciatica is one of the most common forms of pain caused by pinching of the spinal nerves in the lower back. In this condition, sciatic leg pain is usually much worse than the back pain where the pinched nerve originates.

The sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the body; it runs from each side of the lower spine through deep in the buttocks and back of the thigh, and all the way down to the foot.  Sciatica commonly describes the symptoms of pain, and possibly numbness or weakness, which radiates along the sciatic nerve.

The Typical Sciatica Scenario

Sciatica usually affects only one side of the lower body. Often, the pain extends from the lower back all the way through the back of the thigh and down through the leg. Depending on where the sciatic nerve is affected, the pain may also extend to the foot or toes.

For some people, the pain from sciatica can be severe and debilitating. For others, the pain from sciatica might be infrequent but irritating. Pain from sciatica often begins slowly, gradually intensifying over time. In addition, the pain can worsen after prolonged sitting, sneezing, coughing, bending, or other sudden movements.

Common symptoms of sciatica include:

• Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting
• Burning or tingling down the leg
• Weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving the leg or foot
• A constant pain on one side of the rear
• A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up

Common Causes of Sciatica

There are many causes of sciatica. But essentially, the sciatic nerve gets strangled in one of many ways. This causes blood flow to decrease and cells to become dysfunctional, followed by irritation and pain.

Common causes of sciatica include:

• Spinal Stenosis --narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back
• Degenerative disc disease -- breakdown of discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae
• Spondylolisthesis -- a condition in which one vertebra slips forward over another one
• Pregnancy
• Arthritis in the spine
• Being overweight
• Not exercising regularly
• Wearing high heels
• Sleeping on a mattress that is too soft

Nerve Damage Warning for Sciatica Patients

All too often, patients finally come to see me after they have struggled with sciatica pain for many months or years. Not only have they suffered needlessly, but their sciatica has caused anywhere from mild to severe nerve damage down the sciatic nerve. This nerve damage, also called peripheral neuropathy, can be difficult to reverse if the damage becomes severe. Don't try to cover-up your pain with pain relievers. The problem is still there, and it is causing an even bigger problem.