BRAIN TO BODY® SITE GLOSSARY
Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Typically affecting only one side of the body, Sciatica is most commonly a symptom of an underlying spinal condition, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or a bone spur that compresses or irritates part of the nerve. This compression leads to inflammation, pain, and sometimes numbness in the affected leg.
Symptoms of Sciatica can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation, or severe discomfort, and can be exacerbated by certain actions like sneezing or coughing. The pain might make it difficult to stand or sit for extended periods, and in some cases, it can lead to muscle weakness in the affected leg.
Most individuals with Sciatica experience relief through non-surgical treatments within a matter of weeks. Initial treatments often include over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and hot or cold packs. Physical therapy and specific exercises are also effective in alleviating sciatic pain by reducing nerve compression. If conservative measures fail to provide relief, or if the patient experiences significant weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control, surgery might be considered as an option to relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve.
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