Facts About Sciatica

The website Web MD defines Sciatic as a nerve pain associated with the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs down the lower back all the way down the back of both of our legs. It is a large nerve. Normally, when sciatica develops only one side of the body is affected. However, this pain can run all the way from the back, down the thigh and on down one’s leg. The amount of pain can vary from person to person and from case to case. Some people may have severe pain and others may only experience mild pain.

Common Symptoms Associated With Sciatica

Some of the basic and common symptoms that are associated with sciatica include the following:

• Ã?· Pain in the rear when sitting
• Ã?· Pain in the back of the leg when sitting
• Ã?· Burning or tingling feelings in the leg
• Ã?· A constant pain in one side of the rear
• Ã?· A shooting pain that develops when one tries to stand from a sitting position

One Should Seek Medical Attention If They Begin Experiencing The Following Symptoms

If a person begins to experiencing the following symptoms, prompt medical attention should be sought. This includes the following symptoms:

• Ã?· Lower weakness in the extremities that continues to get worse with time
• Ã?· Loss of control of one’s bladder or bowels

Causes Of Sciatica

In simple terms, sciatica is caused by an irritation of the roots of the spine, which is also known as the lumbar region. This irritation can be caused by sitting in one position for a prolonged period of time. This can be caused by one’s job. However, this irritation can also be caused by other conditions such as the following:

• Ã?· Narrowing of the spinal canal (which is also known as Lumbar Spinal Stenosis)
• Ã?· Degenerative Disc Disease
• Ã?· Pregnancy
• Ã?· A condition that causes a vertebra to slip forward on top of another one (which is also known as Spondylolisthesis).
• Ã?· Being overweight
• Ã?· Wearing high heel shoes frequently
• Ã?· Sleeping on a mattress that is too soft

Treating Sciatica

The treatment options for sciatic will vary depending on the amount of pain one has. This may include medications such as pain medications or muscles relaxants. In some cases surgery may be an option, especially if the problem is associated with a herniated disk. In other cases physical therapy may be recommended.

Sciatica is a real condition and it causes real pain. However, you don’t have to suffer in silence. If you are experience any of the above symptoms, speak to your doctor today and see what treatment options may be best for you.