What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is actually not a condition but is instead a group of signs or symptoms. These set of symptoms is basically a result of the compression or general alteration of one or more of the five nerves which is connected to the sciatic nerve. The compression of this nerve can also result to sciatica. Many people believe that sciatic symptoms are a condition but the realty of it is that these are just ordinary symptoms due to a cause.

The cause is something that needs to be determined by finding out what is compressing or affecting the nerve. This factor, whichever it is, is the one that will need to be treated in order to get rid of sciatica. If any of the symptoms may be experienced by an individual, consulting a doctor may be the best choice since this form of condition is not easy to self diagnose and may be downright dangerous if self diagnosis is done.

The causes of compression and sciatica are varied but all connected to nerve compression or irritation. While it is clear that sciatic symptoms are caused by the irritation, alteration or compression of one or more of five nerves which are connected to the sciatic nerve, the cause of the alteration, compression and irritation may be different sources.

Spinal disc herniation, pregnancy, spinal stenosis and piriformis syndrome may be any of the causes of these set of symptoms. These conditions all have something to do with an alteration in the spinal column in which the five general nerves as well as the sciatic nerve are located. Injury to trigger points and certain lifestyle or work habits may also contribute to sciatica. Sometimes muscle or tissue injury can add to the symptoms and sitting at work for too long may also have an effect on it. Even using a work belt can also be a factor to sciatica if this work habit affects the spinal column and the nerves in question.

Sciatica symptoms are all focus on pain or discomfort in regions from the back and up to the legs. Sciatica is not usually felt all at once in these regions, instead there are regions which may experience pain, numbness, tingling sensation and loss of control or difficulty controlling a leg. Sciatica is usually experienced in just one side of the body but there may be instances when both sides of the body will experience sciatica.