What is this strange pain that runs from the back down the leg? Let's learn exactly about sciatica!

Have you ever felt a strange ache, tingling, or burning sensation that starts in your lower back and travels down your leg, through your buttocks, like an electric shock? Perhaps your leg feels numb when you stand up after sitting for a long time? Then you may have a condition called "Sciatica," which is common among many people. Many people are afraid of this name, but if we understand it properly, it is very easy to control. So today, let's talk about what sciatica is, what causes it, and what we can do at home.

First of all, what is this sciatic nerve?

Simply put, the sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in our body. It's like the main electrical cord in our house. It starts at the bottom of our spine. From there, it runs through our buttocks, down the back of our thighs, down our legs, and into our feet. We have two of these nerves in each of our legs.

Just think, what helps us walk, run, and stand is the signals that come from this sciatic nerve, which provides sensation to our legs. That means it's essential for the functioning of our legs. This nerve is so thick that in some places it's wider than the width of our big toe.

So is 'sciatica' a disease?

This is where many people make a mistake. Sciatica is not a disease. It is a symptom . That is, when for some reason the sciatic nerve we talked about earlier is compressed, pressured, or inflamed, we call it sciatica.

Imagine that when someone steps on a water pipe and the water flow is blocked, when this nerve is pressed somewhere, the signals traveling along that nerve are interrupted. That's when that electric-like pain and tingling come.

What are the main functions of the sciatic nerve?

As we mentioned earlier, this nerve has two main functions. To understand this better, see the table below.

What are the main causes of sciatica pain?

There are several possible causes of sciatic nerve impingement. Some of the most common causes are:

• Herniated Disk: This is the most common cause. There are jelly-like cushions between the vertebrae (which we call vertebrae) in our spine. These are called disks. If one of these disks ruptures, the jelly inside it can leak out and press on the nearby sciatic nerve root.
• Degenerative Disk Disease: As we age, the aforementioned discs wear down and the vertebrae become closer together. This can lead to a lack of space for the nerve, which can become pinched.
• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: This is when the canal-like passageway through the spine through which the nerves travel narrows with age or due to other reasons. This can also cause the nerves to become compressed.
• Bone Spurs / Osteophytes: New, unwanted bone growths on the vertebrae of the spine, which can compress the nerves.
• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis is a muscle deep in our buttocks. The sciatic nerve runs under this muscle. If this muscle becomes tight or swollen, it can compress the nerve.
• Spondylolisthesis: This is when one vertebra (joint) in the spine slips forward over the vertebra below it. This can also cause nerve compression.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

The way sciatica pain is experienced can vary from person to person, but there are some common symptoms.

When should you see a doctor?

Sciatica pain usually subsides within a few weeks with simple treatments. However, if you have these symptoms, you should definitely see a doctor right away .

• If the pain is severe and increasing day by day.
• If the pain started after an accident.
• If the numbness and weakness in the leg increases.
• If you experience incontinence (this is a very serious emergency).
• If you have back pain along with a fever.

What tests are done to diagnose sciatica?

When you go to a doctor, the first thing he or she will do is ask you about your symptoms and examine you. At this point, he or she will tell you to:

• Lift each leg straight.
• Walk on your heels and toes.
• Do a squat.

These can give you a rough idea of ​​your muscle strength and nerve function.

Most of the time, sciatica can be diagnosed with this test. However, if you want to know the exact cause, or if the pain doesn't go away, your doctor may refer you to other tests such as:

• X-ray: To look for any changes in the bones of the spine, such as bone spurs.
• MRI Scan: This can produce very clear images of the discs, nerves, and soft tissues of the spine. This can help determine if there is an underlying cause, such as a herniated disc.
• CT Scan: This is used to obtain three-dimensional images of the spine.
• Electromyogram (EMG): A test that measures the electrical signals from nerves to muscles. This can help determine if there is nerve damage.

What can you do to reduce pain and keep the sciatic nerve healthy?

There are some simple things you can do at home when you have sciatica pain.

• Rest: Get some rest during the first day or two when the pain is at its worst. But don't stay in bed for days. That can make your muscles weaker.
• Cold and hot compresses: For the first two or three days, apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) to the painful area for 15-20 minutes. After two or three days, apply a hot water bottle or heated towel. This will relax the muscles and reduce pain.
• Stretching: Gentle stretching exercises are very important. Stretching the muscles in your back, buttocks, and thighs can help reduce the pressure on your nerves. However, if the pain increases, stop exercising . It is best to ask a physiotherapist or your doctor what exercises are right for you.
• Pay attention to posture: Maintain proper posture when sitting, standing, and lifting weights. When sitting, keep your back straight and your feet flat on the floor.
• Painkillers: You can take paracetamol or another painkiller as advised by your doctor. You can also use a gel to apply to the area of ​​pain.

Who is at increased risk of developing sciatica?

Some people are at slightly higher risk of developing sciatica.

• Age: It most commonly occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 50. This is due to changes in the spine as we age.
• Occupation: People who lift heavy weights, bend their backs frequently, and twist their bodies are at higher risk. People who sit for long periods of time (e.g., office workers, drivers) are also at higher risk.
• Obesity: The more body weight, the more pressure is placed on the spine.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can damage nerves, increasing the risk of sciatica.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the weight of the baby and hormonal changes can cause pressure on the nerves.
• Sedentary lifestyle: People who sit in one place for a long time without exercising can weaken their back muscles and develop sciatica.
• Smoking: Smoking reduces the blood supply to the spinal discs, which can cause them to wear out more quickly.

Now you know that although sciatica is a painful experience, it is often not serious. Maintaining good posture, stretching regularly, and staying active can go a long way toward preventing this condition and managing it if it does occur.

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