The sciatic nerve is the main nerve associated with the lower half of the human body. After it leaves the lower part of the spine, it is divided into two sections that follow a path down each leg and into the foot. It is responsible for sensory and motor functions that involve the hips, thighs, calves and feet.
When the sciatic nerve becomes injured or inflamed, pain and numbness can be debilitating. Movement can be difficult and cause intense discomfort.
Location
The sciatic nerve forms at the base of the spinal cord. The roots of the lumbar and sacral nerves join together to form the sciatic nerve. It is the largest nerve in the body with its diameter reaching up to three quarters of an inch. A short distance from the spinal cord, the sciatic nerve divides into two sections. Each section runs through holes in the sacrum called sacral foramen. They extend down the length of the leg and end in the foot. Smaller nerves branch off in various places between the hips and the toes.
Function
The sciatic nerve functions like any other nerve in the human body. It has two basic functions. First, it works as a pathway for messages to be sent from the brain to the muscles in the lower part of the body. Secondly, it acts as a sensory mechanism that collects information from nerve receptors in the hips, legs and feet, and sends that information back to the brain.
Pathway of Signals
Signals are sent from the brain along the spinal cord to the sciatic nerve. They are relayed along the sciatic nerve to nerve receptors located in the muscle tissue. These signals tell the muscles to move in certain ways, such as taking steps, kicking a ball or climbing stairs.
The sciatic nerve is also responsible for sending messages back to the brain. The sciatic nerve has several smaller nerves that extend throughout the legs and feet. These smaller nerves relay messages concerning pain, discomfort and numbness.
Problems Tied to Sciatic Nerve
If the sciatic nerve becomes injured or compromised in any way, shooting pain, numbness, tingling and other types of discomfort may arise. As a person ages, the sacral foramen may become worn. Calcium build-up may also cause the sacral foramen to narrow. This may cause the sciatic nerve to become pinched or compressed.
Vertebrae in the back may shift or the cushioning between them may rupture. Herniated discs are the result. These damaged discs will put pressure on the nerves and cause a variety of issues, including shooting pain and discomfort. Inflammation can cause numbness and tingling in the legs, feet and toes.
Treatments
Many treatments concerning the sciatic nerve focus on reducing the inflammation and the irritation of the nerve itself. Muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatory medications are used to reduce the pressure on the nerves. Rest and physical therapy are also important in relieving symptoms. In more severe cases, steroids and surgery are also included in a person's treatment options.
