Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve roots are inflamed, irritated, stretched or pinched. Inflammation of this nerve can cause extreme pain. The pain can effect any or all of the regions that the sciatic nerve travels, so your lower back, hips, legs, and/or feet can be affected. The pain is different depending on where the nerve irritation occurs.
One or more of the following sensations may occur:
- Pain in the buttocks and/or leg that is worse when sitting.
- Burning or tingling down the leg .
- Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg.
- A constant pain in the buttocks.
- A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up.
Sciatica is a common symptom of a subluxation. It can be very painful and left untreated, it may get worse. Sciatica can result from cumulative spinal damage suffered in daily life.
How do you get Sciatica?
Sciatica is commonly associated with a herniated or bulging disc. Your spinal discs provide a cushion between each of your vertebrae. If this cushion "bulges" it may come in contact with
your sciatic nerve and cause nerve irritation. If you've suffered an accident, the reason for your sciatica may be obvious, however, it can also result from a series of small "injuries" or cumulative damage. Poor posture, excessive weight, lack of muscle tone or other physical, chemical or emotional stresses can lead to an unhealthy spine and sciatica.
Simple movements such as lifting or bending may trigger a sciatic episode but generally there are underlying problems if sciatica is triggered easily.
