What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a term used to describe any kind of pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve is comprised of several nerves that branch out from each side of the lower spine. These nerves merge together to form the sciatic nerve, which runs through the hip, buttock, and thigh, and down the leg to the foot.
The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated (“slipped”) lumbar disc pressing against the sciatic nerve root.
Causes of sciatic nerve pain include:
- Piriformis syndrome
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spondylolisthesis
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Bone spurs
- Pregnancy
Symptoms of sciatica pain
Sciatic nerve pain can range from mild to severe in intensity and may be intermittent or continuous. Although weakness is not often reported, this is an indication that the condition is more serious. Patients may have difficulty standing up, and symptoms are often made worse with sitting or coughing/sneezing. Pain in the lower back may also be present, although this is usually not as severe as the leg pain.
Sciatica usually only affects one side of the body, but if pain is experienced on both sides, this can indicate a more serious health problem.
For more details consult specialist
Dr Rajesh Garg
Orthopedic Surgeon in Canadian Specialist Hospital , Dubai
Call @ 971(4)7072222
