To understand common sciatica symptoms requires a better understanding of what sciatica is. This is because while the term “sciatica” is often spoken of as if it is a condition in and of itself, this isn’t entirely accurate. Instead, sciatica technically refers to the symptoms that arise as a result of the compression of the sciatic nerve in the lower body. In other words, “sciatica symptoms” is in many ways redundant. That said, sciatica can present in a number of different ways, ranging in severity and type depending on the cause of the problem, the severity of the issue, the specific patient, and other contributing factors. So what is the sciatic nerve and why is it so important?

The sciatic nerve extends from the base of the spinal cord in the lower back and extends downward through your body before culminating in the feet near the toes. This nerve is the widest and thickest in the body and instrumental in allowing us our ability to move around. In short, the sciatic nerve is one of – if not the – most important nerves in the body. Yet, why is sciatica and similar symptoms, so prevalent in many individuals?

The lumbar spine in the lower back is extremely flexible and also supports the majority of the body’s weight. The problem is that over the years this region of the spine is especially susceptible to wear and tear, which can cause the anatomical elements of the spine to naturally deteriorate. These degenerative changes are entirely normal, but can sometimes lead to the constriction of the sciatic nerve, which causes sciatica to develop. Symptoms of this condition stem from this irritation that can be caused by everything from a herniated intervertebral disc or arthritic inflammation to the presence of a bone spur or the misalignment of the vertebral column.

Specifically, sciatica is typically associated with sharp, debilitating leg pain, but in reality, the irritation of the sciatic nerve can cause various symptoms because the regular function of the nerve is being interfered with when it is constricted. As a result, this can cause symptoms to ostensibly develop just about anywhere in the lower body, depending on the location and cause of the problem, so numbness or tingling in the feet could actually be traced to a problem in the lower back. Other common symptoms include localized pain, pain that radiates along the length of the nerve, a sensation of pins and needles, diminished reflexes, fatigue, and other similar issues.

In order to effective manage the symptoms of sciatica, it is incumbent on a doctor to identify the origin of the problem and develop a personally tailored treatment plan designed to alleviate the constriction. Treatment options vary depending on the unique diagnosis, but more often than not a regimen of conservative, nonsurgical techniques can be used effectively to address the problem. The use of low impact exercise, hot/cold therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are particularly effective. Only in select circumstances is surgery necessary in order to permanently alleviate the irritation of the sciatic nerve and subsequent sciatica symptoms.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures to treat various sciatica symptoms.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures to treat various sciatica symptoms. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/sciatica_sciatic_nerve_pain/sciatica_symptoms/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures to treat various sciatica symptoms.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: sciatica symptoms