Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the course of sciatic nerve. Pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs down one or both legs from the lower back.
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Causes –.
1. Herniated disc.
2. Bone spur on spine.
3. Narrowing of spinal canal.
4. Spinal tumor.
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This causes compression on sciatic nerve which leads to inflammation, pain and numbness..
Symptoms of sciatica –.
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- Pain that radiates from your lower (lumbar) spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg..
- discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway..
- Pain – it can be mild ache to sharp pain or burning sensation..
- have numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot..
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Risk factors for sciatica –.
1. Age related changes in spine.
2. Obesity as it increases stress on spine..
3. Occupations which require bending, carrying, pushing and pulling heavy weight..
4. Diabetes.
5. Sedentary lifestyle..
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How to prevent sciatica – .
1. Exercise regularly – it will help you to maintain ideal body weight and help to make back, leg and abdominal muscles strong. So that proper posture and spine alignment is maintained..
2. You should maintain proper posture while sitting and working. Role of physiotherapy to manage sciatica -.
1. Pain management – to manage pain physiotherapist will apply IFT (interferential therapy) OR TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)..
2. Hot or cold pack.
3. Ultrasound therapy – it will help to reduce swelling and promotes healing..
4. Nerve mobility exercises..
5. Strengthening exercises for abdomen, lower back and legs. If you feel any of above sciatica symptoms get it diagnosed and treated well. Remember early pain management is must to prevent further complications..
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References –.
1. www.myoclinic.com.
2. www.google.com.