Sciatica is pain along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. This pain can result from irritated or compressed nerves caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other spinal conditions.
If you have persistent or intense leg or back pain, work with a pain management specialist to identify if it’s nerve-related. Here are some indicators to help you determine if you are struggling with sciatica:
Lower Back Pain
When the sciatic nerve roots become pinched from conditions like a herniated disc, you may experience shooting pain in your lower back.
This pain can travel down the back of your thigh and calf, potentially manifesting as sharp, electric-like jolts that persist or come and go. The pain also tends to intensify when standing or sitting for extended periods.
Scheduling an evaluation can help determine if nerve compression along the sciatic pathway is responsible for your discomfort. Treatment aims to restore muscle balance, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion.
Numbness and Tingling
Since the sciatic nerve carries sensation and motor signals, nerve root compression can lead to abnormal sensations from lack of circulation. Sciatic dysfunction may worsen and persist over weeks if not treated.
Targeted interventions aim to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve to restore normal sensation and strength while preventing further damage. Lower limb nerve testing may also be needed to rule out peripheral neuropathy as the cause of any sensation changes.
Muscle Weakness
Compromised signals along the sciatic nerve can impair normal muscle strength and control. Sustained weakness or an inability to lift the foot while walking could indicate nerve damage from sciatica.
This weakness may also manifest in specific muscle groups, such as the hamstrings or calf muscles. During an evaluation, healthcare providers can assess reflexes and movements to determine whether your muscle weakness is related to sciatica.
Pain With Sitting
Prolonged sitting from working at a desk job or completing a long car ride can trigger sciatica symptoms. Repetitive motion and full body weight can compress the lower spinal discs, leading to inflammation and irritation of the spinal joints.
Your doctor may recommend physical therapy and stretching to decompress the nerve roots and relieve pressure. Ergonomic changes to workstations, frequent breaks, and lumbar support pillows can also help prevent recurrent strain.
Pain With Standing
Sciatica may cause pain when standing due to increased pressure on the sciatic nerve. Watch for symptoms like tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the leg or foot.
If your pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like bowel or bladder changes, seek medical evaluation to rule out more serious underlying issues.
Get Help for Sciatica Today
When determining if you're experiencing sciatica, track any shooting lower back and leg pain, weakness, tingling, and numbness.
Notice what activities prompt discomforts, such as squats or other activities involving a bent posture.
Recognizing patterns enables you to work with your doctor to develop a targeted treatment plan that prevents further nerve damage. Contact a pain management doctor today for an evaluation.
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