“Sciatica” is a general term used for pain radiating down the leg. This is extremely prevalent and often occurs in pregnant women, in those with tight hips, and in those with low back issues. Many people are “diagnosed” with sciatica but this is not a truly a disease or disorder. Sciatica is a symptomatic reaction of irritation to the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the large nerve that travels out of multiple segments of the lower spine, through the back of the hip, and down the back of the leg. Irritation at any point in this nerve’s course will cause “sciatica” or a feeling of radiating pain down the leg and possibly into the foot.
There are a few common causes of sciatic nerve pain. A nerve root may be pinched or irritated by inflammation as it exits the spinal column. The nerve bundle may be irritated at the back of the hip from tight posterior hip muscles or compression from sitting for long periods of time. The nerve may be getting compressed in the back of the thigh or calf from tight muscles or inflammation.
The good news is sciatica is easy to treat. All you need is a Doctor of Physical Therapy to evaluate you and determine where your irritation is originating from, why this irritation is occurring, and the extent of the irritation. When we are able to get to the root of the problem, we can not only relieve your symptoms but help to prevent future episodes of this same pain.
If you have been diagnosed with sciatica or deal with recurring episodes of this radiating leg pain, let us help you get the relief and treatment you deserve! If you are having other symptoms besides radiating pain including numbness, tingling, or loss of muscle use in the leg, you should see a Doctor of Physical Therapy to be evaluated to determine if the nerve is being compromised, relieve this irritation, and regain your sensation and strength. Call Life Changes Physical Therapy today if you are ready to get rid of your Sciatica!
Don’t forget to check out the Exercise of the Week this Friday – the Sciatica Starter Kit – for a few easy exercises to help improve your sciatica pain!