Ischias: Sciatic Nerve or Sciatica

By: Wayne Lee
Submitted: 2008-02-12 13:09:53
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On average, symptoms will only happen on one side of the body. This is a very common form of back pain, however the term sciatica actually applies to a set of symptoms rather than the diagnosis of what is irritating the nerve. Causes The cause of sciatica is generally the compression of the lumbar spine nerve root L4 or L5, or compression of the sciatic nerve itself, which is far less common. In the case of disc herniation, sciatica can occur due to the pressing down on one of the sciatic nerve roots. Spinal Stenosis can also be a cause of sciatica because of the narrowing of the spinal canal, where the spinal cord runs, and compression of the spinal cord.

This can be caused by herniated discs, bone spurs and vertebral dislocation, which then pinches the spinal cord that travels to the sciatic nerve and irritating it with friction. Piriformis Syndrome is another cause of sciatic symptoms. However, this only occurs in 15 percent of the population who have the sciatic nerve running through the piriformis rather than beneath it. In case of trauma, the muscle shortens and is compresses the sciatic nerve under the muscle.

Unhealthy posture and excess time in chairs or sleeping in the fetal position, along with no stretching or exercise can cause sciatic irritation and pain as well. Another common cause of pain in the sciatic nerve is pregnancy, usually occurring late when the uterus is pressing on the sciatic nerve, as well as due to muscle tension caused by the weight of the fetus. Treatment One of the best ways to treat sciatic nerve problems is through the use of a chiropractor or osteopath. By seeing professionals who specialize in repairing the spine, a patient will benefit greatly due to chiropractic treatments that are meant to fix problems of the spine. While bed rest and staying off the back is one of the best things you can do, in terms of problems with the sciatic nerve, it is better to be safe than sorry, so those who suffer with pain should see a chiropractor. Conclusion One of the most painful spinal injuries can be to the sciatic nerve.

The nerve can be compressed, or pinched, resulting in a great deal of pain to anyone who suffers from it. The pain can affect the lower half of one side of a person's body, making them immobile. However, by visiting a professional chiropractor for chiropractic treatment, an individual can eliminate the pain in the sciatic nerve and begin walking proud and tall again. There is no reason to suffer with pain that an individual can eliminate with a short visit to a chiropractor or osteopath. As well, by visiting a chiropractor, an individual can ensure they do not do further damage to their spine due to a lack of treatment.

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