Back Pain:
Sciatica & Back Pain – Causes & Recovery
Medical condition as Sciatica is characterised by pain radiating from the path of sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back through the hips – buttlocks and to each leg.
Normally, sciatica affects any one side of the body and is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve and this condition can lead to pain, inflammation, and numbness in the affected part.
Most common root causes of sciatica include slipped discs, and spondylolisthesis. Exactly how severe the sciatica can vary from person to person, improvement of symptoms with treatments like physical therapy and lifestyle changes.
In some cases, sciatica can convert into chronic pain, requiring more extensive treatments, so understanding the root causes and recovery methods is important for effective management of sciatica and back pain.
What causes sciatica and back pain?
Sciatica and back pain are connected with each other and can arise from several causes. They are:
- Slipped discs or herniated discs– This is one of the most common causes of sciatica pain. This condition occurs when the cushions like material between the vertebrae slips or rupture, and lead to compression of nerves, including sciatic nerves associated with pain, weakness, numbness in the leg.
- Spinal Stenosis – This condition happens when the space between the backbone is narrow, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis – This occurs when one of the vertebrae moves out of place over another vertebrae.
- DDD ( Degenerative Disc Disease ) – As an individual age, the discs between the vertebrae in the spine, causes less cushioning between the vertebrae. This can lead to discs to lose their shock absorbing ability with back pain
- Piriformis Syndrome – This situation occurs when piriformis muscle, located in the buttlocks, irritates the sciatic nerve.
How can I relieve sciatica pain quickly?
Cold and heat therapy
Apply ice packs on the affected area in the initial stage to reduce inflammation, and hot pads after 48 hours to relax muscles and increase blood flow in the affected area.
Over the counter medications
NSAIDS can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Practice gentle exercises for sciatica
Like hamstring stretches and piriformis can improve the flexibility and reduce the pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Correction of posture
Maintaining correct posture while standing, sitting, and sleeping to avoid muscle strain.
What causes sciatica and back pain?
Exercise plays a main role in treating sciatica, as it strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve. But still it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting any exercise to ensure safety and avoid any future medical issue.
- Knee to Chest
- Piriformis Stretch
- Pelvic Tilt
Knee to Chest Exercise
Piriformis Stretch
Pelvic Tilt
Can Sciatica pain go away on its own?
Yes, sciatica pain can often heal on its own. In many conditions, symptoms are reduced within 4 to 6 weeks with self-care therapies.
These therapies are:
- Gentle physical activity
- Heat and cold application in the affected part
- Pain reliever medications
- And most important - Rest
However, if the pain remains more than 6 weeks, then it is important to consult an expert because this could be a sign of a more critical condition that requires medical assistance.
Conclusion
- Condition of sciatica is generated by compression of the sciatic nerve, which leads to inflammation, severe pain, and weakness in the legs and lower back.
- Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease are the main cause of sciatica and back pain.
- There is a possibility of sciatica to recover in 4-6 weeks with self care measures.
- If it is not recovered within 6 weeks, then it's an emergency case to consult a doctor.