Sciatica Causes

Commonly referred to as pain of the Sciatic Nerve, Sciatica is characterized by lower back pain that continues down to the legs and feet.

In this condition, even if it is usually included in the list of back pains, the inflammation is felt on the legs. Sciatica pain mainly comes from the pressure induced on the Sciatic nerve by the nucleus that has escaped from the middle of the disc; on some instances, the gel-like substance of the nucleus contains chemicals that irritate or inflame the very sensitive Sciatic nerve.

How does this happen? As we age, the vertebra slowly loses elasticity and the ability to be fluid in movement. This flexibility is caused by the water that hydrates the spine. The dehydration reduces the spine’s capacity to absorb shock and pressure caused by the sudden movement or carrying heavy weight (may be internal or external carrying). Also, it makes the bones brittle that may lead to withering of the discs. When this occurs, the nucleus, with its fluid nature, moves outside the disc; and the pain ensues.

Sciatica pain can be felt in various ways: it could be a mild ache (usual for the first few days or the last stages), a sudden jolt or shock (feels like being slightly electrocuted), unexplainably twitching pain or a burning sensation. The pain is gradually felt and becomes more painful as days pass (without therapy).

Other common causes of Sciatica include Degenerative disc disease, which also irritates the nerve root. Although there are conditions that may be similar to Sciatica such as Sacroiliac joint dysfunction and Piriformis syndrome. Mechanical compression of the spine caused by Spondylolisthesis or spinal stenosis may exhibit pain which is the same of Sciatica.

Spinal stenosis is known as the condition wherein spinal canal areas become narrow, thus applying pressure on the spinal cord or on the branching nerves. This is more felt if the narrowing occurs in the lower spine since the lumbar and sacral roots become affected. Spondylolisthesis happens when a vertebra slips forward over another; making the protruding bone touch the sciatic nerve. Caused by the tightening of the muscles, Piriformis Syndrome happens when the muscle spasms applies pressure on the sciatic nerve. The pain is mostly concentrated on the hamstring part, but not extending on the back of the knees. Active people usually experience this one. However, sedentary positions such as prolonged sitting can be another cause of this condition.

In addition, some health conditions cause the occurrence of Sciatica, such as trauma on the spine (caused by a blow, fall or accident) can injure the nerve roots, particularly in the sacral / lumbar area. Sciatica tumor or injuries directly impacting the sciatic nerve may also cause the pain. Health risk factors like age, occupation (jobs that require heavy manual labor like lifting causes strain in the back), genetics as well as Diabetes (blood sugar usage affecting nerve damage) are also contributing to Sciatica.