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Understanding sciatica: What is it, and how to find relief

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Understanding sciatica: What is it, and how to find relief
06 DecHealth, How-to advice

Have you ever experienced a sharp, shooting pain that starts in your lower back and travels down one of your legs?

If so, you might have dealt with sciatica.

Don’t worry—you are not alone! Millions of people experience this condition and, while it can be painful and frustrating, there are ways to manage it effectively.

Let’s break it down!

What Is sciatica?

Sciatica isn’t actually a condition itself but a symptom of an underlying issue. It occurs when your sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in your body—gets irritated or compressed.

This nerve runs from your lower back, through your hips and buttocks, and down each leg. When it’s pressed or inflamed, it can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or even weakness in your leg or foot.

What causes sciatica?

The most common cause is a herniated disc in your spine. Think of the discs in your back as little cushions between the bones (vertebrae). If one of them slips out of place or gets damaged, it can press on the sciatic nerve.

Other common causes include:

  • Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spaces in your spine.
  • Piriformis syndrome: When a small muscle in your buttock irritates the sciatic nerve.
  • Injuries or trauma: Falls or accidents that affect your lower back.

What does it feel like?

Sciatica usually affects one side of your body. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain that starts in your lower back and travels down your leg.
  • Tingling or a ‘pins-and-needles’ sensation.
  • Weakness or numbness in the leg or foot.

How is sciatica treated?

The good news is that most cases of sciatica get better with time and simple treatments. Here’s
what can help:

At-home remedies:

  1. Rest, but not too much: It is very important to remain active, but avoid movements that make the pain worse.
  2. Apply heat pack: Heat relaxes tight muscles.
  3. Gentle stretches: Simple exercises can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Physiotherapy:

  • Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen your back, glutes and core, as well as improve posture. Importantly, incorporating neuro-dynamic exercises too – which are basically stretches for your nerves.

Can you prevent sciatica?

While you can’t always prevent sciatica, you can lower your risk by:

  • Staying active: Regular exercise keeps your back muscles strong and flexible.
  • Practicing good posture: Avoid slouching, especially when sitting for long periods.
  • Lifting carefully: Use your legs, not your back, when picking up heavy objects.
  • Managing stress: Pacing yourself, sleep hygiene, healthy diet, exercise, meditation and having a friendly social network, all help with mitigating stress.

Final thoughts

Sciatica can be a real pain—literally! But with the right care and a little patience, most people find relief and get back to their normal activities.

If you’re dealing with sciatica, remember to listen to your body and seek help from a trained physiotherapist.

There’s no need to suffer in silence!

Take care of your back, stay active, and you’ll be on the road to feeling better in no time!

The Physio Co’s team of physiotherapists are available to visit you wherever you call home. We are here to help, so get in touch today for more information – please call on 1300 797 793 or email [email protected]

 

Article written by Leon Dawood, TPC physiotherapist

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