Low back pain is one of the most debilitating condition these days and one of the most common reasons for seeking medical healthcare in musculoskeletal pain.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which could start from your lower back pain radiate to your hips and buttocks and travels down the leg. Usually one side of the body/leg is affected. Rarely both legs are affected together.

Symptoms of Sciatica:

Pain:  Sciatica pain is typically felt like a sharp shooting pain in low back or buttock which may/may not extends to the front or back of the thigh and leg and/or feet.

Tingling/Numbness: A moderate to severe sciatia can result in Tingling / Numbness in lower extremity which could be intermittent or constant.

Weakness: Leg weakness along with pain, numbness/ tingling sensation along the course of the Sciatic nerve could occur if left untreated or if there is acute injury associated.

Cough/Sneeze:  Coughing/sneezing can put extra pressure over the nerve resulting in bouts of pain. Most of the patients complains of having iteration of their symptoms.

Morning Pain: Person suffering from sciatica often feels worse in morning, more stiffness could be present in morning.

When sciatica needs immediate medical intervention ?

Certain symptoms of sciatica may indicate a serious medical condition. These symptoms include:

  • Inability to move due to severe back pain/radiating pain
  • Progressive neurological symptoms like loss of sensation/ weakness.
  • Bladder/Bowel dysfunction
  • Loss of reflexes
  • Saddle Anasthesia- loss/diminished sensation in the areas of buttock, perineum and inner surface of thigh.

Disclaimer

This information should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment as this is for informational purposes only. One must consult their healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions. Any damage, loss or injury suffered by an individual as a result of reliance on the information contained on this site is neither the responsibility nor the liability of Orthocure Clinics.