What is Sciatica? Find Out All You Need to Know

The sciatic nerve

The sciatic nerve is present in the lower back of our body, specifically known as the gluteal region. This nerve is the longest and widest of the entire nervous system. A sciatic nerve runs down each of our legs, all the way down to the knee.

Sciatica

Sciatica refers to chronic pain that radiates from the sciatic nerve due to nerve compression, irritation, or injury. More often than not, the condition does not result from an actual injury to the sciatic nerve. The term is generally used to describe any pain that radiates from the lower back to the posterior part of the leg.

Sciatica Pain

The symptoms of sciatica manifest differently in patients depending on the cause. Mostly, patients describe it as a “sharp” or “burning” pain felt in the lower back. It can be consistent or intermittent. The pain is felt more severely in the legs than in the back and can intensify after staying in a standing or sitting position for a prolonged period. Sudden twists and jerks in the upper body can make the feeling worse. 5 Star Clinic offers sciatica treatment for patients in Lancashire.

Does it Affect Only One Leg?

Sciatica mostly occurs in one of the legs where the sciatic nerve has been pinched or irritated. However, it can affect the nerves of both the legs in some rare cases as well.

The Development

Sciatica can develop gradually over time when caused due to spinal arthritis. Alternately, sciatica caused by a herniated disk can result in acute pain.

Is Sciatic Common?

Sciatica or some other form of lower back pain is very common in the UK. Up to 40% of the British population complain of this condition at least once in their lifetime, especially individuals over 60.

The symptoms

1. A sensation of mild to severe pain in the lower spinal region, hips, buttocks, and legs.
   2. Desensitized and weak lower back, legs, and feet.
   3. Pain that comes and goes with movement.
   4. A prickling feeling in the legs and feet.
   5. Weakened bladder control.

At-home Treatments for Sciatica

For treating sciatica effectively, there are certain habits patients should adopt at home to aid the medical treatment of the condition. This can result in a speedier recovery.

1. Use cold/ hot packs for 20 minutes a day to reduce inflammation and pain in the sciatic nerve.
   2. Intake of anti-inflammatory pain killers such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin.
   3. Stretching Exercises.

If the pain of sciatica has made it difficult for you to exercise on your own, consult with 5 Star Clinic and book an appointment for regular physiotherapy or sciatica treatment to resume normal function in your lower back and legs.