Sciatica

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a pain which runs down the posterior of each leg and originates in the lower back. The pathway of this pain follows the sciatic nerve and is caused by pressure triggering the nerve. This pain can also be felt in the hip and the buttocks. Usually only one leg is affected, but it can simultaneously occur in both legs. Other sensations associated with sciatica include the feeling of numbness, weakness or a tingly sensation.

What causes sciatica?

There are a number of causes of sciatica, these include:

Herniated disc– This is the most common cause of sciatic pain. It is caused by degeneration (wear and tear) of the vertebrae discs causing them to be susceptible to injury. In turn the disc can move and apply pressure to the sciatic nerve.

Spinal Stenosis– This is a narrowing of the spinal canal due to natural wear and tear of the vertebrae. Given this, it is mostly experienced by those who are over sixty years of age. The narrowing restricts the room for the sciatic nerve and can apply pressure to the nerve.

Spinal tumours– This is the least common of all the causes of sciatic pain. It involves a tumour within the spinal cord or the sciatic nerve itself, which increases in size and applies pressure on the nerve.

Piriformis syndrome– The piriformis is a muscle which is located deep inside the buttocks and connects the lower spine to the thighbone. The piriformis is located close to the sciatic nerve and can apply pressure to the nerve if it spasms. This is more commonly found in women, but can also be experienced by men (especially by those who carry a thick wallet in their back pocket).