Taking the Pressure Off Sciatica
Sciatica is a symptom caused by a disorder in the lower (lumbar) region of the spine, near the
sciatic nerves. Sciatica refers to irritation of a nerve in the lumbar spine. Pain typically occurs in
one leg and may be associated with numbness or weakness. It may hurt to move even slightly or to remain sitting or standing for too long. Even coughing, sneezing or laughing may cause pain.
The Source of Pain
The most common cause of sciatic nerve irritation is herniated, or slipped, disks (the cartilage-like cushions between the vertebrae in the back). These spinal “shock absorbers” allow the back to turn and bend easily. Cracks in the outer layers of the disks can cause the central cushion to bulge out of place. This puts pressure on the nerves that branch out from it, including the sciatic nerve. Sometimes there’s an obvious cause for the disk disruption (an accident or a fall), but more often than not, there’s no direct event that causes symptoms.
Finding Relief
Staying active but avoiding heavy lifting, bending and twisting may allow you to get back to normal activity more quickly.
Of course, if you have sciatica, this isn’t the time to take up a new sport. Being active means moving around but not intensely enough to exacerbate the pain. An ideal way to achieve this is with physical therapy. Supervised exercises and medical treatments can relieve pain, increase mobility and build strength and endurance to prevent future flare-ups. If you think you may have sciatica, contact the Northside Spine Center to pinpoint the root cause of the problem.
Pain Relief Is Within Your Reach
Our team of spine specialists at the Northside Spine Center can diagnosis and treat severe back and neck pain. To make an appointment, call (404) 459-1809.
