Sciatic nerve pain is an extremely painful and frustrating condition. It is caused by a compression or injury of the sciatic nerve which originates in the lower spine and runs down each leg, explains MayoClinic.com. Sciatic pain can be caused by many factors and may be treated through pain medications, physical therapy and application of ice to the painful area.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle is found in the lower back and is attached to the thighbone. Its function is to assist with hip rotation. According to Dr. Jean-Jacques Abitbol, an orthopedic surgeon in San Diego, CA, in his Spine Universe article, "6 Leading Causes of Sciatica", when this muscle spasms, the sciatic nerve which runs underneath the muscle becomes compressed, causing pain.
Slipped, Bulging or Herniated Disc
A disc is the cushion which lies between each vertebra. Whenever this disc comes out of its place, it can create pressure on the nerves surrounding that area of the spine. Depending on the severity of the condition, whether the disc slips or completely herniates, determines the amount of pressure put on the sciatic nerve causing varying degrees of pain, says Dr. Abitbol.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition in which an area of the spine narrows, causing painful nerve compression, says MayoClinic.com. When spinal stenosis occurs in the lower back, the sciatic nerve may be affected.
Pelvic Injury and Tumors
Injuries to the pelvic region can cause issues with sciatic nerve pain. Dr. Abitbol notes that vehicle accidents, sports injuries and falls can all cause damage to the sciatic nerve, resulting in sciatic pain. Spinal cord tumors, depending on their location, can also cause compression of the sciatic nerve.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women may experience sciatic nerve pain as a result of the growing uterus applying pressure on the sciatic nerve. The American Pregnancy Association notes that the sciatic nerve runs underneath the uterus, easily compressing the nerve causing pain. The hormone Relaxin, when released during pregnancy, can also cause the pelvis to shift out of position. When this occurs, the pelvis can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing intense pain which may run all the way down one leg.
