An irritation, inflammation, pinching, or compression of a nerve in the lower back results in sciatica pain. A herniated or slipped disc that puts pressure on the nerve root is the most frequent cause of this condition. Most sciatica sufferers find relief on their own with time and self-care measures.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica, which starts in the buttock/gluteal region, is a type of nerve pain brought on by an irritation or injury to the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the body’s longest and thickest nerve, measuring almost a finger’s width. Actually, it is composed of five nerve roots: three from the sacrum, the last segment of the spine, and two from the lumbar spine, which is located in the lower back. The right and left sciatic nerves are created when the five nerve roots combine. One sciatic nerve per side of your body travels through the hip, buttock, and leg, ending just below the knee. Following this, the sciatic nerve splits off into additional nerves that travel down your leg and into your foot and toes.
What does sciatica pain feel like?
Depending on the reason of the pain, different people will describe sciatica pain. Some individuals report the pain as being piercing, shooting, or jolting. The pain has also been described as “burning,” “electric,” or “stabbing” by others.
The discomfort could be on going or intermittent. Additionally, your leg typically experiences greater pain than your lower back does. Long periods of sitting or standing, getting up, and twisting your upper body may make the discomfort feel worse. The discomfort can also get greater if you make a rapid, forceful movement like coughing or sneezing.
Does sciatica affect both legs equally?
Typically, sciatica only affects one leg at a time. Sciatica can, however, manifest itself in both legs. It only matters where in the spinal column the nerve is being compressed.
Does sciatica occur suddenly or does it take time to develop?
The signs and symptoms of sciatica
- Moderate to severe pain in lower back, buttock and down your leg.
- Numbness or weakness in your lower back, buttock, leg or feet.
- Loss of bowel and bladder control.
- Pain that worsens with movement; loss of movement.
- “Pins and needles” feeling in your legs, toes or feet.