Pain that radiates through the buttock and down the leg may not be a hip or leg problem. Sciatica is a problem that can affect any part of the sciatic nerve. This nerve starts in the low back, goes through the hip and buttock and branches out into the back of the leg to the foot. When this nerve is irritated it can transmit pain, numbness or weakness in any part of the low back, buttock, leg or foot.
The original problem with this nerve can start in the low back. As the nerve leaves the spine it has to go through an opening called a foramina. If this opening gets to small, from degenerative changes, it can interfere with the nerve. A disc in the spine can also press on the Sciatic nerve. You can even have a muscle in the low back or buttock tighten around the nerve and cause systems.
When your sciatic nerve is irritated the pain can feel like a deep ache, burning sensation or an electrical jolt. You can also have numbness, tingling or weakness in your leg or foot. Many factors can lead to irritation of your sciatic nerve. If your job requires heavy lifting or twisting this can lead to pain. On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you are to sedentary or sit for prolonged periods of time this too can irritate your sciatic nerve. A car accident or trauma can also damage your sciatic nerve and cause symptoms.
The good news is that in most cases this problem will resolve on its own. If your symptoms don’t resolve on their own in a week or two you may need help. Always consult your medical professional if your systems don’t get better. You can always try some self-help techniques if the symptoms are not severe. Cold packs on your back or leg can offer relief. Light stretching can also be beneficial. The other thing you can try is what we call Positional Release. Positional Release is when you put your body into a position of comfort to stop the symptoms. Watch is short video on using Positional Release for Sciatica. If these self-help techniques don’t help, your sciatica can be resolved with proper evaluation and manual therapy. With the right evaluation the mechanical cause of problems can be alleviated.
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