Causes of Sciatic Nerve Pain

There are several injuries that can affect our lumbar spine, causing inflammation in sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and is made up of several important nerve endings originating in the spine.

When sciatic nerve pain occurs, it occurs through inflammation and intense pain in the left or right leg , causing pressure on one of the five nerve roots in the lumbar region or lower back, passing through the buttocks and the knee, which divides between the tibial and fibular nerves and reaches the feet.

Tingling or numbness , stitches, and weakness are some of the most common symptoms to identify it and only through a treatment prescribed by the traumatologist or physiotherapist can they find the solution that corresponds to said injury.

What is sciatica?

This nerve is the longest in the human anatomy and is responsible for the mobility and sensitivity of the back and sides of the legs, the sole of the foot, the instep, and the toes.

Your pain originates in your lower back because that's where the root of your pain originates (L4, L5, and S1 to S3), meaning your lumbar spine and buttocks. However, lower back pain is also called lumbar radiculopathy, which causes electrical shocks that must be treated promptly to prevent the injury from worsening.

In addition, it can stimulate inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, aggravating the injury due to its severe pain.

Causes of sciatica pain

The most common causes of sciatica are:

• Herniated disk : Also known as a contained disk disorder. As its name suggests, it pneumatically "contains" the fibrous annulus of the disk, creating a hernia by exerting pressure against the nerve root, compressing it.
  This is one of the worst consequences of inflammation due to the maximum compression of the nerve root and the bony spinal canal. This causes pain, inflammation, numbness, muscle weakness, and intense tingling.
  
  
• Piriformis syndrome: This is caused by pain and irritation of the sciatic nerve, which affects the narrow gluteal muscle. It is located in the lower spine and connected to the femur, which also helps rotate the hip.
  Its main symptom is muscle spasms that tighten the piriformis muscle, causing severe irritation very similar to sciatica.
  
  
• Pelvic fracture or injury : An injury affecting the body's major nerve structures can be caused by a fracture. Furthermore, the area can be compromised and can cause lifelong consequences.
  
  
• Tumors : The presence of vertebral tumors can cause inflammation of the sciatic nerve, as the tumor itself can compress it. However, it's important to note that this can be mistaken for a simple injury. It's important to see a specialist to clear up any doubts.
  A vertebral tumor is an abnormal growth that compresses the nerve in the lower back . Some can be benign or cancerous. However, they are rare in that area.
  
  
• Trauma: A well-known direct understanding that we cannot control due to external forces are: Car accidents, strong impacts, falls, sports accidents causing consequences over the years and poor posture are some of the most common causes.
  
  

Preventing sciatic nerve inflammation

We must understand that sciatica is not a disease. Rather, it is a byproduct of various pathologies that have deteriorated the lower back area. The most important thing is to strengthen the bones, muscles, and postures to prevent injury. Among the most recommended are:

• Therashape Black Cushion: A posture cushion is ideal for maintaining the natural curve of your back. Designed with Therashape memory foam, it adapts to the natural ergonomics of your back.
  Provides comfort while staying cool and without raising body temperature.
  
  
• Avoid being overweight: This reduces weight and strain on the lower back and legs, improving circulatory flow.
  
  
• Maintain a correct upright posture without bending your back in a “C” shape to distribute the load evenly.
  
  
• Sleep on flexible, special mattresses that help keep the spine straight and can be adjusted to different positions if the patient is bedridden.
  
  
• Therapeutic massages: An ideal home treatment for an inflamed sciatic nerve is to perform massages with natural oils, arnica gel, or moisturizing creams, since when applied, they can relieve pain by relaxing muscles and reducing compression on the nerve.
  
  
• Moderate exercise: Exercise is one of the safest and healthiest natural methods for boosting circulation . Prolonged sitting or standing is the main cause, and it is through this that the first symptoms appear. A short 15-minute walk or a 30-minute walk can reduce blood pressure and promote blood flow in the legs, back, knees, and feet.

It also helps release the spinal canal called "stenosis," draining tension from the nerves that expand through the spine to the extremities.

Most sciatica injuries resolve on their own within 3 to 4 weeks with rest and absolute prevention . However, it's advisable to foster good habits throughout our lives that can prevent major health problems.

And even if the specialist can determine the root of the problem, it may be a silent injury that can trigger various serious pathologies. Prescribing an MRI before making a diagnosis is a favorable solution that can reduce the patient's anxiety and clarify the situation.