Sciatica
Sciatica is a common term used to describe any pain which is radiating from lower back to the legs. This is the pain which runs along the course of the sciatic nerve from back to the legs, compression of this nerve leads to the radiating pain. There can be many contributing factors leading to compression of the nerve and it can keep getting worsened if we do not treat the root cause.
Causes and Symptoms
Some common conditions that can cause sciatic nerve compression are:
Herniated disc
Displacement of the disc from its place causing compression of the nerves in the lumbar region can lead to pain radiating down the legs.
Spondylolisthesis
Displacement of one vertebrae over the another leads to compression of the exiting nerve root.
Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative changes of the disc leads to extra bone growth around the vertebraes causing pinching of the nerve leading to pain.
Stenosis
Narrowing of spinal canal can lead to compression of the nerves causing radiating pain from back to legs
Injury
pain starting post any violent injury or accident
Common symptoms are:
Pain in lower back
Pain in lower back going down to either or both legs
Weakness in the lower body
Weakness in the lower body muscles causing difficulty in movement of leg
Numbness
Numbness, tingling sensation along the course of the nerve, sometimes loss of sensation
Change in walking pattern
Bladder and Bowel gets affected
In extreme condition bladder and bowel gets affected
Treatment
Medications as prescribed by the doctor
Physiotherapy treatment : Meet your therapist to design a program for you, the treatment or exercise program will vary according to the root cause of the condition.
Ice or Hot packs for pain relief.
Stretching exercises : As prescribed by your physiotherapist
Strengthening exercises
Posture correction exercises
If the condition becomes severe, surgery is suggested by the doctors. Remember to go for pre and post operative rehab for a better recovery.
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