The sciatic nerve runs all the way from the lower back to the feet. It’s the largest nerve to be found in the entire human body, made up of five nerve roots from the lower spine.
It’s not something you’ll probably ever think about – until it starts to hurt. Sciatica is a relatively common condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated… and it can be very painful.
Causes of sciatica include a slipped disc, which is the most common cause and occurs when tissue between the bones of the spine pushes out. It can also be the result of back injuries, spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis.
Symptoms include a tingling sensation, much like pins and needles, weakness, numbness and pain (stabbing, burning or shooting) in the backs of the legs, the feet and toes, and the bottom.
Back pain is also a possibility with sciatica (although not as bad as in the legs, bottom or feet) and you may also find that your symptoms are exacerbated when you cough, sneeze or move.
Trying to continue with as many of your normal daily activities as possible is advisable with a sciatica flare-up. It’s also important to try doing some gentle exercise as soon as you can. Painful areas on the body can be eased with heat packs and painkillers may also prove effective.
You may also find it beneficial to visit a physiotherapist to see how they can help. They will be able to provide you with a series of different exercises for you to do at home that can ease symptoms and speed up recovery. If you’d like to discuss physiotherapy in Maidenhead, get in touch with Clear Physio today.