Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve and its branches — from your back down your buttock and leg. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body. It runs from your spinal cord to your buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg. Sciatica is a symptom, not a disorder. The radiating pain of sciatica signals another problem involving the nerve, such as a herniated disk. Depending on the cause, the pain of acute sciatica — which may be quite uncomfortable — usually goes away on its own within a couple of months.

Symptoms

Pain that radiates from your lower (lumbar) spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg is the hallmark of sciatica. You may feel the discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway, but it’s especially likely to follow a path from your low back to your buttock and the back of your thigh and calf. The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating discomfort. Sometimes it may feel like a jolt or electric shock. It may be worse when you cough or sneeze, and prolonged sitting can aggravate symptoms. Usually only one lower extremity is affected.

Sciatica symptoms include:

Pain

Numbness or muscle weakness

Tingling or a pins-and-needles feeling

A loss of bladder or bowel control

Causes

Your sciatic nerve branches from your spinal cord through your hips and buttocks and down the back of each leg. This nerve controls many of the muscles in your lower legs and provides feeling to your thighs, legs and feet. Sciatica may develop when a nerve root is compressed in your lower (lumbar) spine — often as a result of a herniated disk in your lower back.

Treatments

For most people, sciatica responds well to self-care measures. These may include use of alternating cold packs and hot packs, stretching, exercise, and use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Beyond the self-care measures you may have taken, your doctor may recommend the following:

Physical therapy

Prescription drugs

Lifestyle remedies

For most people, sciatica responds well to self-care measures. You’ll heal more quickly if you continue with your usual activities, but avoid what may have triggered the pain in the first place. Although resting for a day or so may provide some relief, prolonged bed rest isn’t a good idea. In the long run, inactivity will make your signs and symptoms worse.

In addition to resuming usual activities, try the following measures:

Cold packs

Hot packs

Stretching

Over-the-counter medications

Regular exercise

If you would like more information contact Garvan at Lynch’s Pharmacy on 4366923.