The sciatic nerve refers to a nerve fiber that runs along the spinal cord and down to the buttocks, hips and backs of the legs, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. The sciatic nerve can become irritated, resulting in sciatica, a condition characterized by pain that moves from the lower back to the buttocks, muscle weakness or numbness of the foot, tingling of the toes or foot and a lack of bladder or bowel control. Fortunately, the causes of sciatica can be effectively managed.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc, also known as a "slipped" disc, occurs when an intervertebral disc pushes out and presses against nerves of the spinal cord. This can trigger sciatica. The Mayo Clinic says that specific symptoms of a herniated disc include numbness or tingling starting in the buttocks and moving down the legs (sciatica). It can also cause pain, weakness or numbness in the chest, arm, neck, shoulders or leg. Back pain or leg pain can occur when sneezing or coughing. A herniated disc is a degenerative disorder, and thus it typically occurs when people get older. A fall or trauma to the back can also predispose a person to developing a herniated disc. Taking over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin and exercising the back with various stretches may help manage a herniated disc and ease sciatic pain. Applying hot or cold compresses and resting can also help treat a herniated disc. The Mayo Clinic says that nearly 10 percent of patients who suffer from herniated discs require surgery to correct the problem and relieve sciatic pain.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition in which the space surrounding the spinal cord actually narrows, can lead to sciatica, as it places an increased amount of pressure on the spinal nerves. Specific symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis include back pain, a burning pain that starts in the buttocks and radiates down the leg (sciatica), leg weakness and reduced pain when sitting or leaning forward. Joint deterioration (arthritis) is the cause for lumbar spinal stenosis. Treatment involves stretching exercises through physical therapy or taking anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections to decrease the pain and inflammation of the stenosis. Other treatments involve acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments. Surgery is sometimes indicated to manage pain.
Piriformis Syndrome
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) defines piriformis syndrome as a condition in which the piriformis muscle located in the buttocks region puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can lead to such symptoms as tingling or numbness on the buttocks and down the leg (sciatica). Sitting for a long time, climbing stairs and running or walking can trigger piriformis syndrome. Treatment for piriformis involves daily stretching and exercising. Also, anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections can be given to relieve discomfort. Surgery is sometimes an option for treating piriformis syndrome.
