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SPINE ISSUES

Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the human body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of each leg. Sciatica typically occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

Here’s an overview of sciatica:

Causes:

  • Herniated disc: A herniated or slipped disc in the lumbar spine (lower back) can put pressure on the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.
  • Degenerative disc disease: Wear and tear of the spinal discs with age can lead to disc degeneration, which may result in disc bulging or protrusion and compression of the sciatic nerve.
  • Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal due to arthritis or other degenerative changes can put pressure on the spinal nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
  • Piriformis syndrome: Irritation or spasm of the piriformis muscle, which lies deep within the buttocks, can compress the sciatic nerve and cause symptoms similar to sciatica.
  • Spondylolisthesis: Forward displacement of one vertebra over another in the lumbar spine can compress the nerve roots and lead to sciatic symptoms.

Symptoms:

  • Pain: Sciatica typically causes sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back or buttocks down the back of one leg. The pain may worsen with movement, prolonged sitting, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Numbness and tingling: Some individuals with sciatica may experience numbness, tingling, or burning sensations along the path of the sciatic nerve, often extending into the foot or toes.
  • Weakness: Severe cases of sciatica can lead to muscle weakness in the affected leg, making it difficult to walk, stand, or perform daily activities.

Prognosis:

  • Most cases of sciatica improve with conservative treatment measures such as rest, physical therapy, and pain medications.
  • However, the prognosis for sciatica can vary depending on factors such as the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and response to treatment.
  • In some cases, sciatica may resolve on its own over time, while others may require ongoing management or surgical intervention to achieve relief from symptoms.
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