Sciatica is a condition that refers to pain or irritation caused by the sciatic nerve being compressed. This nerve is the longest in the body, running from the back down to the feet. Most people feel the pain in the legs and buttocks, and it usually goes away by itself within a few weeks.
Sciatica Symptoms:
Upon irritation or compression of the nerve, the usual symptoms include:
– Numbness
– Pain
– Tingling sensations
– Muscle weakness
Patients may experience anything from mild to excruciating pain, made worse by long periods of sitting, coughing, and sneezing.
When to See a Doctor?
If your symptoms get worse over time, are persistent, or severe, you should see your physician. A doctor can usually diagnose by discussing with you your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. One possible way to confirm diagnosis is to do a passive straight leg raise test.
Sciatica is rarely a medical emergency. However, if you experience any of the following, you should call an ambulance:
– Numbness or tingling around your buttocks or between your legs
– Loss of bowel and/or bladder control
– Feeling the pain in both legs.
These conditions could be indicative of cauda equina syndrome, which is a very serious condition.
What Causes Sciatica Pain?
Most of the time, the cause of the compression of the nerve is a disc slipping. This happens when there is damage to one of the vertebrae, which then starts to press on the nerves. This is mainly caused by aging. In rarer cases, the causes include:
– Cauda equina syndrome, which is very rare and very serious condition whereby the nerves themselves are damaged.
– A tumor or other growth on or in the spine.
– An infection or injury of the spine.
– Spondylolisthesis, whereby a disc has slipped fully out of position.
– Spinal stenosis, whereby the spine's nerve passages narrow.
Sciatica Pain Treatment:
Usually, the condition goes away on its own within six weeks, and will not require treatment. Meanwhile, there are numerous at home treatments, including using cold and/or hot packs, exercising, and taking over the counter painkillers, that can help you manage the pain and get relief while you heal.
If the case is more persistent or severe, further treatment may be required. Commonly, this includes:
– An exercise program devised by a physiotherapist who will also monitor your progress
– Painkiller and anti-inflammatory medication injections directly into the spine
– Prescription painkillers for a short period of time and under full doctor supervision
Prevention of Sciatica:
It is often impossible to prevent a first episode because you don't know you are at risk. Most people have recurring episodes, however, and these can be prevented by:
– Ensuring they adopt proper posture and use the right lifting techniques
– Stretching before exercise, and afterwards
– Taking part in regular exercise
Furthermore, you must make sure that you have a mattress that is firm enough to give you proper support, leaving both your buttocks and shoulders supported. This ensures that your spine is straight. If you have a soft mattress, put a hard board under the mattress and use a pillow to support your neck.