Sciatica is one of the most common causes of back and leg pain in the world. Sciatica is symptoms that occurs when the sciatic nerve (the largest nerve in the human body) is compromised. This vital nerve runs from the lower lumbar region of the back all the way down the hips, buttocks, and legs, with branches extended through the feet. The sciatic nerve is responsible for providing sensation to the low back, legs, and feet. When this important nerve becomes inflamed, compressed, or irritated, it results in radiating pain, numbness, and tingling throughout the legs.

It is important to note that sciatica is symptoms, not a medical condition. For many people, sciatica comes on out of nowhere, leading to a sudden feeling of pain in the low back or hip. This pain typically radiates along the back of the thigh and down through the leg. There are many different causes of sciatica, from a herniated disc in the spinal column to a pinched sciatic nerve. For many people, sciatica pain is worse when they sit, sneeze, or cough.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica can either occur suddenly or over time, depending on the person and a host of other factors. Some people report feeling weakness, numbness, or a pins and needles sensation, whereas others have a hard time bending their knee or moving their foot. Regardless of what your symptoms are, the fact of the matter is that sciatica can wreak havoc on your daily life. In many cases, the pain associated with sciatica can be quite severe, and that’s an understatement. A large percentage of individuals who have sciatic nerve pain have missed work and had their quality of life impacted. However, sciatic pain can usually be resolved on its own or with non-operative treatments in a matter of weeks. Some of the most common symptoms associated with sciatica include:

• Low back pain or discomfort
• Hip pain or discomfort
• Pain in either legs or the buttocks
• Pain that is worsened by sitting
• Burning sensation
• One side of the buttocks in constant pain
• Severe pain that makes it very uncomfortable to stand
• Pain on the lower side of the body
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction

Causes of Sciatica

As mentioned, there are many different events and conditions that may lead to sciatica. The most common causes of sciatica include:

• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Pregnancy
• Muscle spasms, specifically in the back
• Sleeping on an unsupportive mattress
• Degenerative disc disease

Sciatica is also a common result of age-related changes to the spine, such as bone spurs, herniated discs, prolonged sitting, and diabetes.

Treating Sciatica

The majority of sciatica cases heal on their own over time. However, there are a handful of things you can do to speed up the recovery process. Here at Crescent Pain Relief, we have helped countless patients find relief through physical therapy, therapeutic stretches, and chiropractic therapy. To learn more about our services or to find out how Dr. Shaikh treats sciatica, please contact Crescent Pain Relief today.