The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the hips and down the back of both legs. It plays a crucial role in controlling movement and sensation in the lower limbs.
Sciatica is a general term that covers a complex variety of sciatic nerve pain and symptoms caused by compression or pinching. Sciatica is extremely common.
What are the symptoms of Sciatica?
Sciatica pain is typically described as:
- Burning, tingling pain or sharp pain—usually constant
- Pain radiates from lower spine down through your buttocks & back of your leg
- Sciatica pain tends to affect one side only
- Pain worsens with sitting or standing for long periods
- May experience unusual skin sensations such as tingling or numbness
Symptoms of sciatica usually worsen with activities such as bending. Your experience of sciatica may be different to the symptoms of another person.
What causes Sciatica?
Sciatica develops from irritation of the sciatic nerve. This nerve can be aggravated from many causes including:
- Trauma
- Piriformis syndrome
- Uneven leg lengths
- Herniated or bulging disc
- Arthritic growths on the spine
- Overuse injury
- Osteoporosis
- Muscular strain (back or hamstrings)
- Muscle spasm causing a pinched nerve
- Increase stress on the back from weakness in the core
- Pregnancy
Sciatica is commonly seen in manual labourers, sedentary individuals, people with poor posture, and during pregnancy. Elderly individuals with osteoarthritis and spinal degeneration are also at higher risk.
Since sciatica symptoms can vary widely, a proper diagnosis is essential. While symptoms can include sharp, shooting pain or chronic discomfort, surgery is rarely required, and a tailored treatment plan can help relieve pain and restore mobility.
Can a Podiatrist help with Sciatic pain?
If your sciatic pain is caused by an alignment issue or biomechanical flaws then a pair of orthotics may be useful in reducing your pain.
A foot orthotic can help to correct these biomechanical issues. A pair of custom foot orthotics are designed by your podiatrist after a thorough assessment of your biomechanics including your stance and gait (the way that you walk).
For an assessment and treatment options, please call us on 0451 133 575 or book into our Elite Podiatry Mullaloo or Marmion clinics.
