Sciatica is a common problem in today’s society, and it can be quite frightening for some. Most people know that it can be extremely painful, and in severe cases, it can prevent people from living their lives like they are accustomed to. But many of these same people might not even know exactly what sciatica is. To clear up some of the confusion, these fast facts will help people get caught up on the basics of sciatica.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically occurs when a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine compresses part of the nerve.
This can cause inflammation, pain, and often some numbness in the affected leg. The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or discomfort. Sciatica usually affects only one side of the body, but this can be different between causes of sciatica.
11 Facts About Sciatica You Should Know
1. Any Kind of Injury to the Sciatic Nerve Impacts its Connection to the Brain
Rather than affecting the nerve physically, when the sciatic nerves are irritated, it affects the connection to the brain. That’s why sometimes wrong information is sent to and from the brain to the rest of the body.
2. The Term Sciatica was Coined in the 15th Century.
In medieval times, sciatic pain was mistaken for tuberculosis, which worked its way down to the ischial tuberosity (the sit-bones). Although the actual cause was discovered, the name stuck.
3. Sciatica is a Symptom Rather Than a Disease
When someone mentions that they have sciatica pain, it doesn’t just end there. Sciatic pain occurs when there is irritation in the sciatic nerve caused by a herniated disc in the lumbar spine or a tightening of the musculature of the hip. That’s why you always need to seek an expert’s help to diagnose this pain.
4. The Most Common Cause of Sciatic Pain is Back Injuries
A variety of lower back problems can lead to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. Most commonly, sciatica pain is caused when a herniated disc irritates the nerve root in the lower spine.
5. Height Has a Greater Influence on Sciatic Pain Than Weight
A 1991 cross-sectional study of 2946 women and 2727 men published in Spine found that neither gender nor body mass made any difference in the likelihood of developing sciatica. Instead, height was more directly linked. Furthermore, tall males between the ages of 50-64 had higher chances of developing this pain.
6. Each Sciatic Nerve is Actually Made Up of Five Nerves
Moreover, these nerves get together from the right and left sides of the lower spine. This is the reason some sciatic nerves can be as thick as a thumb and cause pain and swelling when irritated.
7. Sciatic Pain Can Extend From the Hips to Your Toes
The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back, through the buttock, and down the back of your thigh. It then branches into smaller nerves that supply muscles in the lower leg and foot. So, when the sciatic nerve is irritated, you will experience pain starting from the hips and can extend even to your toes.
8. Physical Inactivity Can Worsen Your Sciatic Pain
Resting is important for a healthy life but doing more than is required can lead to worsening of the pain. Therefore, physical activities, even as small as walking around, should be done to reduce your sciatic pain.
9. Sciatica Can Be Treated and You Can Regain Your Normal Life
Luckily, with years of scientific research, there are a lot of surgical and non-surgical treatments available to treat your sciatica. At Illinois Back Institute, we offer all-natural treatment delivered by a unique team of doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, nurse practitioners, and technicians to treat your sciatic pain.
10. If Sciatica Is Not Treated on Time, Then There Can Be Permanent Damage
Yes! If you do not refer to experts for diagnosis after experiencing its symptoms, then it can lead to permanent damage to the sciatic nerves. This could include a loss of muscle, weakness, loss of balance, inability to walk for a long time, and also bowel issues.
11. There’s a Specific Age Range That is More Likely to Suffer From Sciatica
Sciatica is most common in people between the ages of 30 and 50. This is often caused by age-related changes in the spine where people experience sciatica.
The Illinois Back Institute Can Help With Your Sciatica Pain
If you suspect that you might have sciatica, book a free consultation with our experts for a proper diagnosis. Our holistic treatment can help you experience the pain relief you seek.
