If you’re experiencing spine pain in your lower back or down one leg, you may have sciatica. This condition is caused when the sciatic nerve – the largest nerve in the body – becomes compressed.
In this article, we’ll look at what sciatica is and how to treat it. We’ll also discuss some prevention tips to help you keep your spine healthy.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition that results in pain, tingling, or numbness running down one leg. The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body, and it branches off from the spinal cord in the lower back. When this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause significant discomfort in the lower back and legs.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica can cause different symptoms. One common symptom is pain that radiates from your lower back down your leg. This pain usually starts gradually and gets worse over time. Other symptoms may include:
- A feeling of numbness or tingling in your leg
- Weakness in your leg
- A burning sensation in your leg
- Difficulty moving your leg or foot
- A sharp jolt or electric shock feeling down your spine
Sciatica can be worse prolonged sitting can aggravate symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your doctor. They can help diagnose the problem and recommend treatment options.
Causes of Sciatica and Spine Problems
There are spine problems that can cause sciatica. One of the most common conditions is a herniated disc. When one of the discs in your spine becomes injured or falls out of position, it can create pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), disc degeneration, and spondylolisthesis (a condition in which one vertebra slides forward over another) are further causes.
In some cases, the exact cause of sciatica can’t be determined. However, certain risk factors can make you more likely to develop the condition, including:
- Age: With age, the discs in your spine begin to wear down and become less flexible.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put additional strain on your back and contribute to the development of sciatica.
- Smoking: Smoking decreases blood flow to the lower spine, leading to nerve damage and the development of sciatica.
- Occupation: If your profession requires you to sit for extended amounts of time, twist your back, handle heavy things, or drive a vehicle for extended periods, you may be at a greater risk of developing sciatica.
Why choose GNS Surgery Center for sciatica treatment
The GNS SurgeryCenter is dedicated to providing the latest advances in minimally invasive spine surgery and effective non-surgical treatment options. We offer cutting-edge technology for treatments that can relieve pain and improve function.
We are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality of care. Our specialists are committed to providing individualized care for each patient because we believe that every patient deserves access to the best possible care. We offer treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Our goal is to give our patients the best possible outcome as one of Georgia’s leading healthcare providers. Schedule an appointment with us today, or visit our website for more details about how we can help you find the right treatment for your sciatica.
