Symptoms that show signs of Sciatica

Symptoms that show signs of Sciatica: Sciatica is more of a symptom of another issue involving the sciatic nerve. It is a type of pain that stems from the irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerve. Experts say that around 40% of people will experience Sciatica at least once.

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Signs of Sciatica

The nerve ends from the spinal cord bundle in, pass through the hip and diverge into various parts of our feet. So in the case of Sciatica, only a specific amount of our leg pains. It is always best to consult a doctor if any symptoms arise. But one can start with some self-tests that will work as an indicator that one has Sciatica.

• Pain throughout the lower back and buttocks. If the lower back pain travels below the knee, there is a need for a doctor’s consultation.
• Leg, foot, groin, or rectal area numbness(saddle anaesthesia)
• Fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, and back pain.
• Legs are weak and getting foot drop.
• Back pain/ injury due to some accident.

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Common lower back problems causing Sciatica

The most common reason for getting sciatic nerve pain is a herniated disc. As a disc degenerates and breaks down, the inner core can leak out through the outer part of the disc.

This condition is known as disc herniation, which puts direct pressure on the nerve. It typically worsens with sitting and bending-type activities. Loss of disc height can cause bulging of the disc, putting pressure on the nerves exiting the spine. Disc degeneration and facet joint overloading can cause arthritic overgrowth.

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The second most prevalent cause is spinal stenosis. The foramen becomes narrower, squeezing the spinal cord.

Piriformis Syndrome is another cause of Sciatica. Piriformis is a muscle that runs from the sacrum to the hip. The power puts pressure on the nerve and causes pain, and it generally does not involve back pains.

Spondylolisthesis is a common lumbar spine problem. The disc is unstable and allows the upper vertebral body to slide forward.

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Is my back pain Sciatica or something else?

In most cases of lower back or leg pain, people mistake it for Sciatica. Sciatica is just one of the many lower back and leg issues. All of them are different in some way or another, and they must be treated differently, too.

To start, Piriformis Syndrome is one of the popular reasons for Sciatica. But technically, it is not Sciatica. The nerve pain does not originate from the lower back but rather from the hip. It has its remedies and professional treatment.

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A back spasm is widespread among older adults and people who are into sports, athletics, or weight lifting. The pain can vary but usually subsides within a week or so. In-home treatments like stretching, alternate hot and cold application, exercises, and rest are enough in most cases.

Spinal arthritis or any other joint problems in the lower spine may give a flavour of Sciatica. But this problem is technically not Sciatica and has a separate remedy and treatment procedure.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction may cause Sciatica-like pain down the leg. Leg pain from sacroiliac joint dysfunction can be challenging to differentiate from radiating leg pain caused by Sciatica.

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