Sciatica is a condition where pain from the lower backradiates to the buttock and the leg. Sometimes the pain continues into the calf or even the foot. The symptoms can feel sharp, burning, or stabbing, but also nagging or tingling.
Although people often refer to “sciatica,” it is not a diagnosis in itself. It is acollective term for symptoms caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve (nervus ischiadicus).
What is the sciatic nerve?
The sciatic nerve is thelargest nerve in the body. This nerve originates in the lower back and runs through the buttock to the leg and foot. When this nerve is put under pressure or becomes irritated, sciatica symptoms can develop.
The cause is usually in the lower back, even if the pain is felt mainly in the leg.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica can have different causes. In practice, we often see a combination of factors, such as:
- a herniated disc in the lower back
- wear and tear of the spine (osteoarthritis / discopathy)
- reduced movement function of the spinal joints
- muscle tension or muscle spasms in the lower back or buttock
- poor posture or prolonged overload
These factors can create pressure on or irritation of the nerve roots that together form the sciatic nerve.
It is good to know that sciatica is sometimes confused with other forms of radiating pain.
For example, pain in the leg can also be caused by a nerve compression in the lower back, such as with a herniated disc. This is also known as radicular pain.
Although the symptoms can feel similar, the cause is different. A careful consultation and physical examination help make this distinction and determine the right treatment.
What does sciatica feel like?
Sciatica symptoms can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
- lower back pain radiating to the buttock and leg
- tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation
- loss of strength in the leg
- worsening of symptoms when sitting, bending, or coughing
Sometimes the symptoms are continuous; sometimes they come in attacks. Movement can become difficult, while sitting still for a long time often makes the pain worse.
What happens in the body with sciatica?
When a nerve is under pressure, it becomes over-stimulated more easily. At the same time, normal movement signals do not work as well. This can lead to pain, muscle weakness, and a disrupted movement pattern.
The body often tries to adapt, for example by moving differently or avoiding certain postures. This may provide relief in the short term, but in the long term it can actually cause additional strain.
Sciatica due to piriformis syndrome
Another possible cause of sciatica symptoms is piriformis syndrome.
The piriformis is a small muscle deep in the buttock, alongside (and sometimes even through) which the sciatic nerve runs. When this muscle becomes tight or goes into spasm, it can irritate the nerve.
This can cause symptoms that resemble sciatica, such as:
- pain in the buttock radiating into the leg
- tingling or numbness
- worsening when sitting or with prolonged strain
In this form, the cause is therefore not in the back, but in the buttock region.
Chiropractic treatment, possibly combined with techniques such as dry needling, can in many cases help reduce muscle tension and relieve pressure on the nerve.
Treating sciatica: what are the options?
Although sciatica can be painful and limiting, this does not mean you have to keep walking around with it. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure on the nerve and improving the function of the spine.
At Chiropractie Blaauw, we look at the whole picture:
where the irritation starts, why the body becomes overloaded, and how movement function can be restored.
By:
- improving the mobility of the spine
- restoring balance and posture
- reducing overload on nerves
symptoms can decrease and recurrence is prevented as much as possible.
Do you have to learn to live with sciatica?
Sometimes people say sciatica is “just part of it” or will go away on its own. While symptoms may sometimes lessen, it is important to understand why the nerve becomes irritated.
By addressing the cause instead of only fighting the pain, more is often possible than you might think—even when symptoms have been present for a longer time.
Make an appointment for sciatica symptoms
Are you experiencing pain that radiates into your leg and would you like to know what is possible in your situation?
You are welcome for a thorough assessment and honest advice.
You can easily make an appointment via email or by phone on 0182 – 570124.
