Sciatica FAQs

What is sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body. It runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. It provides motor and sensory functions to the leg below the knees. When this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can cause significant pain, often referred to as sciatica.

Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, not a diagnosis itself. It refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically affecting one side of the body. The pain can vary from mild to severe, often described as sharp, shooting, or burning.

What causes sciatica?

Any condition that physically irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve may cause sciatica symptoms. The most common cause is a herniated lumbar vertebral disc. Other causes include:

• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Back injuries
• Spinal misalignments
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Long periods of sitting
• Tight and weak back and core muscles

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

Sciatica commonly presents with the following symptoms:

• Pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttocks and down the leg
• Numbness or tingling along the leg
• Weakness in the affected leg or foot
• Difficulty sitting, standing, or walking

The pain is often worse when sitting or standing for long periods and can be aggravated by sudden movements like coughing or sneezing.

How is sciatica diagnosed?

Dr. Federico Girardi and his team of orthopedic spinal surgery experts typically diagnose sciatica through a physical exam and a review of symptoms. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are useful to identify the cause, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

Who is at risk for sciatica?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing sciatica, as the condition is often linked to certain lifestyle choices, underlying health conditions, or physical activities. The most common risk factors include:

1. Age: As people age, natural wear and tear on the spine can lead to conditions such as herniated discs or bone spurs, which are common causes of sciatica.
2. Occupation: Jobs that require heavy lifting, bending, twisting, or prolonged sitting may contribute to sciatica.
3. Sedentary Lifestyle: Individuals who are physically inactive or lead a sedentary lifestyle may have a greater risk of developing sciatica.
4. Obesity: Excess body weight can place additional strain on the spine, leading to problems such as disc herniation, which may compress the sciatic nerve.
5. Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of nerve damage, including damage to the sciatic nerve. This condition, known as diabetic neuropathy, can cause symptoms similar to sciatica.
6. Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially with poor posture or inadequate back support, can increase pressure on the lower back and contribute to sciatica.
7. Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the spine, which can accelerate the degeneration of spinal discs.
8. Pregnancy: Pregnant women may be at higher risk for sciatica due to changes in posture, weight gain, and the pressure of the growing uterus on the sciatic nerve.
9. Pre-existing Back Conditions: Individuals who have a history of lower back problems, such as disc degeneration or previous spinal injuries, are more susceptible to sciatica.

By recognizing these risk factors and making lifestyle changes when possible, such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and practicing good posture, individuals can reduce their chances of developing sciatica.

Can sciatica go away on its own?

In many cases, sciatica resolves on its own with rest, gentle stretches, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if the pain persists for more than a few weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by severe symptoms like loss of bladder or bowel control, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

What treatments are available for sciatica?

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and its cause. Common treatments include:

• Physical therapy
• Pain-relieving medications
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Epidural steroid injections
• Surgery, in severe cases, if other treatments are ineffective

For those with sciatica, timely intervention can prevent prolonged suffering.

Can exercise help sciatica?

Yes, exercise can be beneficial. Gentle stretching, low-impact aerobics and activities like walking, and strengthening exercises for the core and lower back can help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Can sciatica be prevented?

Preventing sciatica involves maintaining a healthy spine. Here are some tips:

• Practice good posture, especially when sitting or standing for long periods
• Engage in regular physical activity, including exercises that strengthen the back and core
• Use proper lifting techniques
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the spine

When should I see a doctor?

It’s recommended to seek medical advice if sciatica:

• Persists for more than a few weeks
• Causes significant weakness in the leg
• Is accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severely affects daily life

Early intervention can prevent complications and improve the quality of life for those experiencing sciatica.

Contact Dr. Girardi to schedule a consultation to learn more about your condition and discover all you treatment options. Dr. Girardi offers personalized expert orthopedic care to patients in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and the Capital District Region, as well as international patients.

References

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica
• Davis D, Maini K, Taqi M, et al. Sciatica. [Updated 2024 Jan 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507908/