Ssciatica is a name given to pain felt in the back of the leg that radiates (travels) down the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is comprised of nerve fibers from L4, L5, S1, S2 and S3, according to "Anatomy of Human Movement: Structure and Function." The spinal nerve roots (L4-S3) are typically a major source of sciatica, and they cause pain when irritated either mechanically (tissue injury) or chemically (inflammation).
Anatomy
The sciatic nerve is a combination of several nerves. Nerve fibers leave the lower lumbar spine and sacrum and joint together to form the sciatic nerve. The nerves passes down the back of the thigh deep to the bicep's femoris muscle, according to "Anatomy of Human Movement: Structure and Function." As the nerve travels down the leg it separates into two separate nerves: the tibial and common peroneal.
Injury to Sciatic Nerve
"Orthopedic Physical Assessment" states that the sciatic nerve can be injured anywhere along its path from the lumbar and sacral spine, but it is most commonly injured in the hip region. The sciatic nerve can be injured by irritation and compression of muscles such as the piriformis muscle as well as by herniated or bulging discs in the spine.
Symptoms
Sciatica pain includes radiating pain down the back of the leg, numbness, weakness of muscles and can affect gait.
Treatment
Treatment varies based on the cause of the pain. Chiropractic and physical therapy are used in conservative cases.
Expert Insight
To understand the true cause of your symptoms it is advised to seek the opinion of a professional when sciatica symptoms do not improve.
References
- "Anatomy of Human Movement: Structure and Function Fifth Ed."; Palastanga N, Field D, Soames R.; 2006.
- "Managing Low Back Pain Fourth Ed."; Kirkaldy-Willis WH, Bernard TN; 1999.
- "Orthopedic Physical Assessment Fifth Edition."; Magee DJ; 2008.
