Sciatica — Causes, Signs, And Symptoms

It is a condition in which an individual suffers from severe pain in the back that radiates towards the leg along with the back of the thighs, popliteal fossa, and gastrocnemius(calf muscles).

The nature of pain in this condition may be shooting, continuous, burning, or stabbing.

causes
• PIVD / Disc bulge
• Bone spurring
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Pyriformis syndrome
• Tumor in the spine

Signs And Symptoms
• Shooting pain
• Numbness
• Burning sensation
• Prickling sensation
• Discomfort
• Weakness in legs
• Painful movements
• Difficulty walking properly

Risk Factors
• Age: old age people are more likely to develop sciatica as compared to young age people
• Obese people are suspected to develop sciatica relatively
• PIVD
• Prolong sitting
• Diabetes
• Occupations that involve prolog sitting, carrying heavy weight, prolong standing, etc.

Treatment
• Ice application to reduce pain and swelling
• Hot pack if the swelling has been reduced
• Gentle stretching exercises
• Aerobic exercises that may include walking, swimming, etc.
• Back strengthening exercises

When to see a doctor If your pain persists for more than a week and develops further injury and gets worsens.

Precautions
• Maintain correct posture
• Try not to do heavy weight lifting
• Avoid forward bending
• Get out of bed from lying to sitting while turning to the side
• Keep your weight in control
• Stretching regularly to strengthen back muscles
• Avoid prolonged siting and prolonged standing