Sciatica: A Pain in the ...

Sciatica: A Pain in the...

By Dr. Daniel Rocha, DN, LMT, CPT, CNS

SCIATICA

Sciatica refers to pain or discomfort associated with the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower part of the spinal cord down the back of the leg to the foot. An injury to the sciatic nerve can cause sharp or burning pain that radiates from the lower back or hip, potentially following the path of the sciatic nerve to the foot.

The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body. It originates in the lower part of the spinal cord. It branches off and passes between the bony vertebrae, runs through the pelvic girdle or hip bones, and continues down the back of the leg to the foot.

Several factors can cause sciatic pain, and treatment depends on the underlying issue, such as lumbosacral radiculopathy or back strain. "Lumbosacral" refers to the lower part of the spine, while "radiculopathy" pertains to the spinal nerve roots that pass between the vertebrae and contribute to forming the sciatic nerve. A shock-absorbing tissue known as a disk cushions the area between the vertebrae. If a disk shifts or is damaged, it can compress the spinal nerve root, sending pain signals to the brain, with the injury being to the nerve roots.

A back strain may lead to muscle spasms in the lower back, which can place pressure on the sciatic nerve. Other contributing factors include infections, cancer, bone inflammation, or various diseases. Piriformis syndrome can occur when the sciatic nerve passes through the hip joint, sharing space with several muscles. If the piriformis muscle is injured or in spasm, it can compress the sciatic nerve.

TREATMENT

A massage therapist or Naprapath may use a variety of techniques to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. While massage cannot eliminate the pressure a disk may exert on the sciatic nerve, it can relax tense muscles in the lower back and buttocks and stimulate blood flow. This is especially beneficial for patients suffering from piriformis syndrome. Massage can also promote the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.

Naprapathic spinal and hip manipulations can help align the spine and balance the hips, which may alleviate some disk-related issues. Naprapathy also includes physical therapy, which is crucial to a successful recovery from sciatica. Consistent movement strengthens the essential muscles that support the lower back and legs. Activities such as walking and swimming are important long-term exercises that help prevent the recurrence of sciatica.

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Franz, J. F. (2021). Sciatica. In B. Narins (Ed.), The Gale Encyclopedia of Senior Health: A Guide for Seniors and Their Caregivers (3rd ed., Vol. 5, pp. 2033-2038). Gale. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/CX8080300612/HWRC?u=lirn33148&sid=bookmark-HWRC&xid=8db41c37