What is Sciatica? Decoding the Nerve Pain

Definition of Sciatica

Sciatica refers to nerve pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest and thickest nerve in the body. This pain typically originates in the lower back and travels down the back of one leg, sometimes extending into the foot.

Types of Sciatica

While not distinct “types” in the same way as ataxia, sciatica can be categorized by its underlying cause or presentation:

Acute Sciatica: Short-term, sudden onset pain, often resolving within weeks.
Chronic Sciatica: Persistent pain lasting longer than six weeks, or recurring frequently.
Bilateral Sciatica: Sciatica affecting both legs (less common and may indicate a more serious underlying issue like cauda equina syndrome).
Sciatica with Neurological Deficits: Accompanied by numbness, weakness, or loss of reflexes.

Symptoms of Sciatica

The primary symptom of sciatica is pain, which can range from mild to excruciating. Other common symptoms include:

Radiating Pain: Pain that extends from the lower back through the hip and buttocks, and down one leg.
Burning or Shooting Pain: Often described as a sharp, burning, or electric shock-like sensation.
Tingling or “Pins and Needles”: A prickling or buzzing sensation in the affected leg or foot.
Numbness: Loss of sensation in parts of the leg or foot.
Muscle Weakness: Difficulty moving the foot or leg, or experiencing “foot drop.”
Pain Worsened by Certain Movements: Increased pain when sitting, coughing, sneezing, or bending.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica is caused by anything that compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve. Common causes include:

Herniated Disc (Slipped Disc): The most common cause, where the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out and presses on the nerve root.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD): Age-related wear and tear on the spinal discs can lead to disc bulges or herniation.
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Piriformis Syndrome: Spasm or tightness of the piriformis muscle (in the buttock) can compress the sciatic nerve.
Spondylolisthesis: A vertebra slips forward over the one below it, potentially pinching the nerve.
Pregnancy: The added weight and hormonal changes can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Spinal Tumors or Infections: Although rare, these can compress the nerve.
Trauma: Injuries to the spine or pelvis.

Who Can Suffer from Sciatica?

Sciatica can affect individuals of any age, but certain factors increase the risk:

Age: More common with advancing age, as discs degenerate.
Obesity: Excess body weight puts increased stress on the spine.
Occupation: Jobs requiring heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, or awkward postures.
Diabetes: Can increase the risk of nerve damage (neuropathy).
Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and weak core muscles.
Smoking: Can affect circulation and increase the risk of chronic pain.
Previous Spinal Injury: Increases susceptibility to nerve compression