Sciatica! If you have ever felt this, you know it can be very painful and completely debilitating. The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the human body and is derived from various spinal nerves located in the lower lumbar and sacrum regions.
It's the main nerve that innervates the lower extremities, extends into the hips through the buttocks, and continues its way down each leg until reaching the foot. This is why if the sciatic nerve gets irritated, it can not only cause pain but also affect one's ability to control and feel one’s legs.
What symptoms does it cause?
Sciatica is a sensation that can manifest as moderate to severe pain in the back, buttocks, and legs. It more commonly affects one leg, although both can be compromised simultaneously. In addition to pain, you may also feel weakness or numbness in the lower extremities and pain or tingling in your toes and feet.
These symptoms are caused by an underlying injury to the sciatic nerve or an area that affects the nerve, such as theL4/5, L5/S1 segments of the lumbar spine. Sciatica is so common that as many as 40percent of people will get it at some point during their lives.
What causes it?
There are a few causes of sciatica which include;
Herniated disc (most common): In 90% of cases, sciatica is causedby a disc herniation pressing against the lumbar or sacral nerve root.
Lumbar stenosis: Occurs to a lesser extent and is more common in older adults as it involves abnormal narrowing of the lower spinal canal. This narrowing, commonly due to degenerative changes, puts pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots, causing symptoms that run down the leg.
Spondylolisthesis: It affects 4-8% of the population. It mostly refers to a vertebra that has shifted forward in relation to the bone below, which in this position can compress the sciatic nerve,causing pain and discomfort.
Is sciatica always caused by a problem in the spine?
No not always. Besides a structure problem, muscular imbalances can also cause sciatica, although it's less common. But how could this happen? An example would be sitting for long periods sincesitting reduces activation of the gluteal muscles, which may cause them to atrophy and weaken over time.
Consequently, the body increases reliance on secondary muscles (hamstrings and piriformis) to perform tasks that are intendedfor the glutes (primary muscle), which is known as synergetic dominance.
Due to this imbalance, less powerful muscles get activated to perform tasks that strong muscles like the glutes should do, leadingto overactive hamstrings and/or piriformis.
By overworking these smaller muscles, they not only become tight but can grow bigger (hypertrophy), which in the case ofthe piriformis can trap the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatic-like symptoms.
So, how do you deal with this type of problem?
Well, rather than treat symptoms, which are just pain signals, resolving the underlying issue to heal naturally is key. In the case of sciatica our plan may include;
Manipulative Therapy: This treatment can restore proper function to specific segments of the spine, allowing the structure to heal more efficiently.
Postural Education: By eliminating painful stimuli, such as those from faulty postural habits, this can reduce physical strain that is contributing to the problem.
IASTM—Soft tissue therapy: This technique promotes faster tissue regeneration, breaks down scar tissue, and reduces restrictions by engaging the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Biomechanical Rehabilitation: Practice specific routines to stabilize your spine, restore proper function and improve posture to impact the spine in a positive manner.
Kinesiotape Tape: This is used to support and relieve pain in muscles, joints, and ligaments. It lifts the skin to create a small space between the muscle and dermis, enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation.
At ChiroVitality, we use a multifaceted approach to healing. Our tailored treatment plans focus on your individual needs to ensure you receive the care you require to find lasting relief. Don’t let neck pain hold you back any longer.
Take the first step and book your initial assessment. If you’re unsure, contact us today to schedule a FREE 10-minute Virtual consultation with Dr. Nick so he can answer any questions you may have. Let’s work together to get you back to feeling your best!
