Sciatica refers to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the leg that originates
in the lower back, travels through the buttock, and then down the sciatic
nerve at the back of the leg. Sciatic nerve pain occurs when the sciatic
nerve is irritated or pinched in the lumbar spine, and is a symptom of
an underling medical condition such as degenerative disc disease, spinal
stenosis, or a lumbar herniated disc. Pain from sciatica can vary from
infrequent and annoying to constant and debilitating, depending on the
location and severity of the underlying condition.
Sciatica pain generally only affects one side of the body, and usually
includes one or more of the following symptoms:
- Pain is worse when sitting
- Pain is often described as burning or tingling as opposed to a dull ache
- Sharp pain that makes it difficult to stand or walk
- Weakness or numbness in the leg or foot that make them difficult to move
Sciatica is a common disorder that affects 40 percent of the population
at some point in their lives. Despite its prevalence and the availability
of treatment, there are still many myths surrounding sciatic nerve pain
that we have addressed below.
Myth: Sciatica is caused by leg problems.
Leg pain may lead people to think that sciatica is caused by leg problems,
but the real source of the problem lies in the spine. Common causes of
sciatica actually have nothing to do with the leg, including spinal tumors,
sciatic nerve tumor or injury, spondylolisthesis, and spinal stenosis.
Myth: All patients with sciatica experience the exact same symptoms.
The experience of sciatica varies from patient to patient depending on
the location of the pinched nerve. Some patients may feel numbness or
tingling while others report a burning or searing sensation. Some patients
recover from their pain relatively quickly, while others may experience
worsening pain that may persist for much longer.
Myth: Sciatica only affects sedentary people.
While sciatica does usually affect people with more sedentary lifestyles,
active people can develop sciatic nerve pain, too. They may be at risk
for developing the condition particularly if they engage in activities
that involve heavy lifting or frequent twisting.
Myth: Sciatica does not result in permanent nerve damage.
While permanent nerve damage is rare, it can happen. If you experience
symptoms such as bowel or bladder incontinence or increasing loss of sensation
in the leg, get immediate medical attention as this may indicate a more
serious condition.
Myth: If I have sciatica, I’m stuck with my pain forever.
Fortunately, there are plenty of effective medical treatments out there
for patients suffering from sciatic pain. The medical professionals at
Georgia Accident Rehab Centers offer a wide range of non-invasive medical
treatment options to manage your symptoms, including physical therapy,
massage, and chiropractic adjustments. You will be individually assessed
by your doctor to determine the most effective course of treatment for
your sciatica so that you can experience relief.
To learn more about how we can get you on the path to recovery, please
call us today at (404) 620-4020.