 Sciatica
is a relatively common form of back pain that radiates along the
sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the
human body; it runs from each side of the lower spine through deep
in the buttock and back of the thigh, and all the way down to the
foot, connecting the spinal cord with the leg and foot muscles.
The pain can be severe for some, for others it is infrequent and
irritating, but has the potential to get worse. Sciatica usually
affects only one side of the lower body, often radiating from the
lower back down through the buttock and down the leg. The leg pain
is often worse than the pain in the back. Depending on which part of
the sciatic nerve is affected, the pain may also extend into the
foot or toes.
The most common causes of sciatica are usually pressure on the
sciatic nerve from a herniated disc (also referred to as a ruptured
disc, pinched nerve, slipped disk, etc.) or spinal stenosis. The
problem is often diagnosed as a “radiculopathy”, meaning that
a disc has protruded from its normal position in the vertebral
column and is putting pressure on the radicular nerve (nerve root).
Symptoms
Any of the following sensations may occur with sciatica:
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Pain in the buttock or leg that is worse when sitting
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Burning or tingling down the leg
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Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg or foot
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A constant pain on one side of the buttocks
-
A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up
While sciatica can be very painful, it is rare
that permanent nerve damage (tissue damage) will result. Most of the
pain results from inflammation and will get better within two weeks
to a few months. Also, because the spinal cord is not present in the
lower (lumbar) spine, a herniated disc in this area of the anatomy
does not present a danger of paralysis.
Most cases of sciatica will get better with time and conservative
care. However, some sciatica symptoms may indicate a potentially
serious injury to the nerve:
-
If weakness is present, the nerve may be damaged and it is
important to seek attention from a health care professional. If
the nerve is compressed and the pain and symptoms are severe,
surgery may be warranted.
-
If there is bowel or bladder incontinence (inability to control
the bowel or bladder) and/or progressive weakness or loss of
sensation in the legs, the condition may be serious and
immediate medical attention should be sought.
Diagnosis
Sciatica is a symptom and not a diagnosis. The term literally means
that a patient has pain down the leg from compression on the sciatic
nerve. The diagnosis is what is causing the compression (such as a
disc herniation or spinal stenosis). The vast majority of sciatic
episodes heal themselves within 6 to 12 weeks. If it doesn’t get
better on its own, various treatment options can be considered.
(Continued on next page.)
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