Sciatica is the name given to the condition whereby the person experiences tiredness, pain, radiates from hip to the leg, also feeling of numbness and/or tingling sensation along the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the largest single nerve found in a human’s body. It originates from the spine in the lower back (the lumbar region) and extends through the hips and the back of the legs.
Symptoms of Sciatica
A classic symptom of sciatica is soreness, pain, and numbness in the lower back and hips, combined with pain in either one leg. In rare cases, the person may experience pain in both legs too, along with a tingling sensation or numbness in the toes. This pain is further aggravated with prolong sitting and prolong standing. Lying down can provide some relief, however, studies show that this relief is only temporary and does nothing to address the cause of the pain, therefore it can't be considered a remedy for sciatica.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched, inflamed or irritated at the point of its origin, i.e. the spine. This can be due to a number of reasons including bad posture, remaining seated and standing for prolonged periods of time, physical injury or accident that affects the lower back, sprained or tightened back muscles, heavy lifting, compression, and arthritis.
Sciatica, Lifestyle and Work
Sciatica is becoming an increasingly common condition primarily due to our lifestyles and work related injury which include a lot of sitting, be it at a desk at the office or in the car while driving, others are cause of improper and heavy lifting. In work related the company should help employee to teach what is the proper way of lifting and right body mechanism. Ask for help when you need to lift heavy loads. Symptoms of acute sciatica can last for anywhere between a few days to several weeks to months.
When to Seek Medical Attention
In many cases, the symptoms of acute sciatica will go away without medical attention if appropriate measures are taken. However, chances are that it will flare up again soon if the person reverts back to their poor posture or sitting habits , etc. if symptoms persist, or the condition appears to be worsening, the person should consult a doctor. In that way, the doctor will order X-ray and refer you to Physical Therapist. This will help you to get the proper way how to exercise, to relieve the pain. If still persist, the doctor might order for MRI. In some people Chiropractor might help but mostly it worsen the problem.
Immediate Remedy
1. During this time, it is recommended that the person engages in some light exercises and stretches, improves posture, and limits the time they spend sitting in order to provide relief to the sciatic nerve. This along with massage and warm compress can loosen the back muscles so that they exert less pressure on the sciatic nerve.
2. If you are sitting too long at work you might need a standing desk. To change your position from sitting to standing frequently.
3. Walking with good soft shoes, will help with the pain due to compression.
4. Follow your doctor's advice and your Physical Therapist's exercise program. Do your stretching everyday.
I myself experienced this sciatic nerve pain, It was uncomfortable, I can't even stand in the kitchen for too long. I needed to walk most of the time instead of just standing, bend or lay down. It started on my right hip then it was resolved after my Physical Therapist and continuous exercise at home. I walked most of the time at work so walking is really helpful when you have this. Next, I will share the exercises I did that help relieve my sciatica pain. ES
Disclaimer: We are not a Medical Doctor please always consult your doctor or Neurologist.
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