Sciatica is often loosely applied and associated with any kind of leg pain. However, the correct meaning of sciatica is a pain that arises when there is pinching or compression of the sciatic nerve close to its point of origin. This pain usually presents as a burning/searing pain that starts from the lower back and radiates to the leg.

Who Is At Risk For Sciatica?

Sciatica is mostly age-related (onset between 40 -50 years) and affects both males and females. However, sciatica can occur at any age as a result of conditions such as diabetes and obesity. People who sit down for prolonged durations are also at risk for sciatica.

What Are The Symptoms Of Sciatica?

• Pain that originates from the lower back and spreads down the buttocks, thigh, calf, and sole is characteristic.
• Pain can be anything from a dull ache to a sharp, burning or searing kind of pain.
• Associated weakness or numbness on the affected side of the leg and foot.
• Lower back pain that is mild.
• Lying down or walking provides pain relief while sitting down or standing aggravates the pain.

What Are The Causes Of Sciatica?

Sciatica is not a disease or condition on its own, but it is a symptom of an underlying condition such as a herniated lumbar disc, bone spurs (bone overgrowth) or rarely a tumor. These conditions cause the compression of the sciatic nerve.

How Do You Relieve Sciatica?

A combined approach of pain meds, physical therapy, and other home remedies may relieve sciatica pain effectively. The approach will depend on the severity and duration of pain. Because of this, it is advisable to have a doctor or pain specialist make an assessment and prescribe the appropriate meds for you.

Some effective home remedies include warm and cold compresses, massage and stretches.

When Should You See A Doctor?

Sciatica pain may resolve on its own over time. Unfortunately, it may also result in permanent damage to the sciatic nerve. This makes it very necessary to have a spine specialist examine you whenever you have the above-mentioned symptoms.

However, you should always look out for these three danger signs:

• Severe pain that will not go away.
• Complete numbness in the affected leg or foot
• Associated bladder or bowel symptoms

If you are in Seguin or New Braunfels, we would be honored to serve you. Contact our office to schedule an appointment or to get more information.