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Sciatica is identified as a group of symptoms occurring when
the sciatic nerve, found on the lumbar region of the spine, becomes irritated. The
most commonly diagnosed cause of sciatic nerve irritation, or sciatica, results
due to compression or impingement of a single or multiple nerve roots caused by
natural spinal degeneration with age or a disc herniation in the lower back,
which may occur after trauma from an injury. The symptoms of sciatica generally
originate in the area of the buttock, and depending on the grade of the
underlying nerve compression and inflammation, sciatic nerve irritation may
radiate down the entire leg into the ankle and foot.
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Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis
muscle, found in the buttock region from the upper femur bone to the edge of
the sacrum, or the pelvic bone below the lumbar spine, contracts and spasms
causing pain and tightness as well as tingling and numbness. The symptoms of
piriformis syndrome are very similar and are often closely associated with
sciatica. In some cases, the condition actually causes sciatic nerve
irritation. Because the sciatic nerve runs underneath or through the middle of
the piriformis muscle, contraction or inflammation of the tissues in this area
may compress the sciatic nerve and develop sciatica symptoms. This is one of
the main reasons sciatica and piriformis syndrome are often misdiagnosed.
The Similarities
As previously mentioned, the symptoms of sciatica and
piriformis syndrome are very similar. Both cause pain, tingling and burning
sensations, and/or numbness down the affected leg which can radiate down into
the foot. Furthermore, this set of symptoms and the condition tend to closely
correlate to biomechanical functional complications in the joints of the back
and pelvis. Sciatica and piriformis syndrome may even be present simultaneously
in the same person which can make telling both complications apart more
difficult.
Consequently, though, because the most effective treatment
options for sciatica and piriformis syndrome vary considerably from each other,
it is ultimately essential to receive a proper analysis in order to determine
the correct diagnosis of your symptoms. In most cases, there is an easy way to
distinguish between sciatica and piriformis syndrome.
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The Differences
When the problem is one condition versus the other and not
both conditions at the same time, there are two simple methods that will help verify
the presence of sciatica apart from piriformis syndrome. First, while in a
seated position, if the individual straightens the affected leg so that the leg
is parallel to the floor and the sciatica symptoms increase, this could suggest
the presence of sciatica or true sciatic nerve irritation. Then, for the second
method, from a sitting position as well, the individual should first bend the
affected leg and pull their knee towards the same-side shoulder. In all but the
most severe cases, there should not be a major increase in pain while in this
position. Continuing with this same method, the individual should then pull
their knee towards the opposite shoulder. An increase in sciatica-like symptoms
is a strong indication of piriformis syndrome.
If you’re experiencing any form of symptoms that may be
causing you pain and discomfort, its crucial to seek immediate medical
attention to determine the presence of any other underlying condition that may
be causing the symptoms. A chiropractor focuses on diagnosing and treating a
wide variety of musculoskeletal injuries or conditions, including sciatica. Through
a series of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, chiropractic care can
gradually restore the individual’s natural health by relieving the stress and
pressure being placed on the spine which could be causing the pain and discomfort.
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
