Sciatic Pain

Sciatic pain is a term used to describe a condition commonly known as sciatica, which is pain that originates with the sciatic nerve in the back. This nerve, which comes out of the spinal column, extends down through the buttocks and all the way to the feet. It is one of the largest nerves in the human body.

Sciatic pain is a tingling or numb sensation caused by irritation of the roots that lead to the sciatic nerve.

There are number of sciatic pain causes.

The most common causes originate in the spinal column. If the discs or vertebrae are injured or inflamed, pain can be felt as far away as the foot. One typical cause of sciatic pain is a herniated disc, in which a disc presses against the nerve roots that lead to the sciatic nerve.

Sciatic pain can also be caused by chronic bad posture. Someone who slouches in front of a computer for long hours can damage their sciatic nerve. Sciatica is also fairly common among long haul truck drivers who must sit in one place, hour after hour, day after day. While sciatica is a problem in it's own right, sciatic pain can also be a symptom of other disorders and conditions. including:

• spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal),
• bone spurs caused by arthritis, or
• a pinched nerve caused by injury.

Sciatic pain can also result from conditions that don't involve the spine, such as tumors or pregnancy. These causes are rare, however.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatic pain, the most obvious symptom of sciatica, usually starts in your back or buttocks and radiates downward to your legs and feet. Weakness, tingling, or numbness are common.

Relieving Sciatic Pain

Sciatic pain tends to become worse if you sit or stand for a long time, or do certain body movements. However, walking, lying down and movements that extend the spine may help relieve some of the pain.

Certain kinds of over-the-counter pain relievers may also help, including Tylenol, ibuprofen, and Aleve.

Some people get relief by using a heating pad or standing in a warm shower every few hours. Others say ice packs help. But there is no evidence from research that ice or heat have any long term benefits.

If your sciatic pain persists, you could talk to your doctor about physical therapy. Injections of certain medicines such as steroids may help. Surgery for sciatic pain is possible, but it is usually done only in the most severe cases.