Sciatica

Sciatica is when compression or irritation of one or both sciatic nerves causes pain.  This pain can be experienced in a number of places including the buttocks, the leg, the foot and the lower back.  Mostly, the pain felt in these areas only occurs on one side of the body at a time.  Although many people assume that sciatica is a diagnosis, it is actually just a set of symptoms for what is irritating the nerve and causing the pain. 

Some of the most common causes of sciatica are:

·      Piriformis Syndrome

·      A bulging or herniated disc

·      Lumbar spinal stenosis

·      Spondylolisthesis

Piriformis Syndrome is one of the main causes of sciatica.  This syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle places pressure on the sciatic nerve.  The pressure is caused by muscle imbalances that pull the pelvis and hip joints out of place. 

When a disc protrudes out between the vertebrae, this causes a herniated disc, causing pressure on the sciatic nerve.  There are many ways a disc can become herniated including injury to the back, aging, or uneven pressure to the disc. 

Spinal Stenosis is when the narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.  Some causes of this include aging, fluorosis, heredity and trauma. 

Spondylolisthesis is probably the least common cause of sciatica.  This occurs when pressure is put on the adjacent vertebrae when another slips forward.  With spondylolisthesis, some people may experience sciatica or lower back pain and some people may not. 

There are natural ways to deal with sciatica.  If you, or someone that you know is suffering from sciatica, feel free to call us for a FREE CONSULTATION and more information.  404.396.2224