SCIATICA
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic
nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks down each leg.
Here are some key points about sciatica:
Symptoms: The most common symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower
back or buttock down one leg. The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp,
burning sensation. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or weakness in
the affected leg or foot.
Causes: Sciatica is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. This
can result from conditions such as a herniated or bulging disc in the spine, spinal
stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), degenerative disc disease, or even muscle
spasms in the buttocks or lower back.
Risk Factors: Certain factors may increase the risk of developing sciatica, including age
(as the spine degenerates over time), obesity (which can increase pressure on the
spine), prolonged sitting, diabetes (which can damage nerves), and occupations that
involve heavy lifting or prolonged sitting.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis of sciatica typically involves a physical examination, review of
symptoms, and sometimes imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to identify
the underlying cause of nerve compression.
Treatment: Treatment for sciatica aims to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. This
may include over-the-counter pain medications, muscle relaxants, physical therapy
exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, hot or cold therapy, epidural
steroid injections, or in severe cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Prevention: To help prevent sciatica, it's important to maintain good posture, practice
proper lifting techniques, engage in regular exercise to strengthen the back and core
muscles, and avoid prolonged sitting or standing in one position.
