Sciatica
Sciatica
Sciatica is a debilitating condition in which the patient experiences pain and/or paresthesia (numbness) in the distribution of the sciatic nerve or an associated lumbosacral nerve root. Our L4 – S2 nerve roots make up our sciatic nerve. Sciatica is commonly described as an inflammatory condition.
Etiology:
Common causes of sciatica include, but are not limited to, herniated or bulging discs along L4 – S2, other various degenerative disease of the spine, or lumbar/pelvic muscular spasm, tension, and/or inflammation pressing on the sciatic nerve.
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Clinic Presentation:
Patients usually present with pain in the low back, buttocks, and/or involved leg, weakness, numbness, impaired walking, and abnormal reflexes.
Risk Factors:
Certain habits or physical dysfunction can put you at risk for developing sciatica. Sciatica is a common occurrence among the elderly, individuals with improper lifting techniques, individuals who work manual labor, and individuals with poor mobility of the spine and lower extremities.
Medical Management:
Physical therapy is a common treatment for individuals suffering from sciatica. Your physical therapist can provide with interventions that will promote, flexibility, strength, nerve mobility, as well as education on measures to prevent a return bout of sciatica. If conservative treatment is not effective, your physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications in the form of an oral pill or injection.
