What is Causing My Sciatica?
Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that arises from the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that starts from the lower back and runs from there, through the buttocks, down into the back of the leg.
Causes of Sciatic Nerve Pain
Sciatic nerve pain can come from irritation of the sciatic nerve in the lower back or buttocks. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc, which happens when the soft inner part of the disc pushes through its tough outer layer. Other causes of sciatic nerve pain include:
Spinal stenosis: narrowing of the spinal canal
Spinal injury or infection
A growth within the spinal canal, such as a tumor
Spondylolisthesis: when one of the vertebral bones moves out of place, either forwards or backwards
Tumors: Abnormal growths within the spinal canal can press on the sciatic nerve
Symptoms can include
Pain in the back of the leg, which may also affect the lower back, is often described as sharp, shooting, or burning. This pain can be aggravated by long periods of sitting, stretching the legs, or taking long steps while walking. If you have pain in the back of your leg, your physiotherapist will examine your lower back to determine if it is the source of the problem.
Pain in the back of the leg due to sciatic nerve issues can often be mistaken for a hamstring strain. However, a hamstring strain usually occurs during activities like sprinting, and the patient often recalls the specific incident. This is not typically the case with sciatica. Additionally, strength tests for the hamstrings will likely be painful and show weakness, which is unusual for sciatic nerve pain.
Treatments
Various treatments can help alleviate sciatica. Staying active is generally beneficial for managing sciatic nerve irritation. Techniques such as joint mobilisation in the lower back and trigger point dry needling of the gluteal muscles can provide pain relief. Education on ergonomics and posture is also useful. Conducting a functional movement assessment can help identify any movement issues that may have contributed to the development of sciatic nerve pain.
Physiotherapy
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