Sciatica
Sciatic Nerve Pain: Common Causes and Treatment
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve branches from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica most commonly occurs when the disc or degenerative changes compresses part of the nerve, which often causes pain, inflammation and numbness down the affected limb. It is often confused with back pain, but sciatica is not confined to the back. Acute sciatica (short-term) may last a few weeks, while chronic sciatica (long-term) can persist for much longer periods.
Sciatica Symptoms
Sciatica itself is not a diagnosis, it is actually a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as herniated disc, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease. The pain can be infrequent or constant, depending on the location of the pinched nerve. In general, sciatica is associated with one or more of the following symptoms:
➟ Shooting pain in one leg or on one side of the buttocks
➟ Difficulty moving leg, foot or toes
➟ Tingling or numbness (pins and needles) in leg
➟ Trouble standing or sitting due to pain
If you are over the age of 40, have a job that requires heavy lifting on a frequent basis, or sit for long periods of time (inactive), you are more likely to develop sciatica than someone who is physically active or younger.
Sciatica Treatment
Although pain associated with sciatica can be severe, the majority of cases resolve with conservative care within a couple of weeks. At Jacksonville Sport & Spine, we use a combination of various techniques to effectively address sciatic or other nerve presentations, including:
➟ Medication/pain management
➟ Massage therapy
➟ Spinal adjustment
➟ Strengthening/stretching exercises
➟ Physical therapy
If you are suffering from sciatic nerve pain, contact us today and schedule an evaluation.
