Over-exercising, lifting, bending, or twisting abruptly into awkward positions, and even driving for extended periods of time, can strain the sciatic nerve, leading to lower back pain which radiates into the back of the legs as well as other numerous symptoms, known as sciatica.
What is Sciatica?
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Approximately 5 to 10 percent of individuals experience some
form of low back pain from sciatica. Most commonly seen in people ranging from
18 to 35 years of age, the prevalence of sciatic symptoms varies tremendously
from 1.6 percent throughout the general population to 43 percent in a selected
working population. Unfortunately, only 30 percent of individuals suffering from
sciatica seek medical attention only after experiencing these painful symptoms
for a year or more. In a majority of cases, sciatica is caused by a herniated
disc involving nerve root compression.
Not all individuals with lower back pain have sciatica.
Lower back pain could result from a variety of factors, most frequently seen in
sedentary workers who sit behind a desk for an extended period of time with
improper posture while not following ergonomics.
Causes for Sciatica
Several causes of sciatica include trauma from an injury,
spondylolisthesis, piriformis syndrome, spinal tumors and obesity. “Sciatica
can be debilitating at times when the episode is acute. At that time, it is
very difficult to carry out day-to-day activities. Some patients are advised
bed rest for three to four weeks so that their condition improves. Majority of
the symptoms settle down with non-operative management, which involves
extensive rest,” Dr. Sunil Dachepalli, senior orthopedic and joint replacement
surgeon and sports medicine expert at Yashoda Hospitals quoted.
For long-distance drivers, they are at a higher risk of
developing sciatica because of the constant jolts on bumpy roads which have
been known to weaken the discs of the spine. Smooth roads can prevent this
though. The individual’s height can also be a component towards the development
of sciatica as most discs rupture backwards when the person bends forward. Taller
people tend to slouch forward more often and also, when they bend, their center
of gravity moves further away from the spine. The pressure on the spine is
multiplied by the distance of the force, resulting in more pressure on discs of
taller people when they bend forward.
It’s essential to properly diagnose the presence of sciatica
and determine the source of the pain and other symptoms. Sciatica caused by a
common back complication, such as a spinal misalignment, may require a
combination of treatments to relieve an individual’s symptoms as well as treat
the underlying cause of the sciatica. Dr. N. Somasekhar Reddy, senior
consultant orthopedic surgeon stated, “In 80 percent of the cases where people
treat their sciatica on time, it is found that these simple methods can help
them get better with time.”
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica is characterized by a sharp pain along with
numbness on the leg. The affected leg may also feel weak and appear thinner
than the other leg. Additionally, many individuals experience a mild tingling,
dull ache, or burning sensation that can also be felt on the back of the calf
or on the sole of the foot. The pain and discomfort usually worsens when one
lies down and can often make getting enough rest difficult. Occasionally, redness
and swelling may appear on the back. An episode of back pain that has lasted
continuously for more than four weeks could suggest the presence of sciatica.
Home Remedies for Sciatica
If you’ve been diagnosed with sciatica, there are a several remedies
that can help ease the pain. Foremost, ice therapy can be used on the affected
are of the back to reduce the swelling. Participating on regular physical activity
and exercise can help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility to prevent
degenerative wear and tear changes associated with age. In addition, avoid
sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time by taking several breaks to
stand, stretch, and walk around. If you must be on your feet, rest one foot on
a small stool or footrest and then switch feet throughout the day. Individuals
with sciatica symptoms should also avoid wearing high heels. This type of
footwear alters the body’s natural posture, adding pressure to the spine which
could aggravate your sciatica. And finally, take pressure off your back by
sleeping on your side or on your back with a pillow under your knees.
While these remedies can relieve symptoms of sciatica, their
effects may only be temporary and it’s still crucial to receive immediate
medical attention to diagnose any possible underlying conditions or injuries
that could have developed your complications and follow with proper treatment.
Chiropractic care focuses on realigning the spine through the use of spinal
adjustments and manual manipulation to decrease the stress on the spine as well
as strengthen the structures around the vertebra and restore the body’s natural
health.
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
