An X-ray, MRI or a CT scan to the back may show the likely cause. MRI, CT or ultra sound scan of the bum may also show the swelling in the bum that may be pressing the sciatic nerve.
15 years ago, I got an injection on the buttocks and there is a dent to show for it. Recently, the same area started hurting and when the pain starts, the down part of my leg feels as though it is paralysed. What could be the issue? Birungi
Hello Birungi,
The body, apart from having nerves that work automatically, has two other main types of nerves called the sensory and motor nerves. Sensory nerves carry signals from certain parts of the body to the brain so that one is able to feel pain, appreciate touch, taste, smell and sight. The motor nerves carry signals to the muscles to help them move.
A nerve called the sciatic nerve exits in the vertebrae (bones that protect the spinal cord) from the lower back to the bums, back of the thighs and calves to the feet. This nerve, therefore, helps the sensory and motor part of the lower back, the bum, thighs, feet and toes.
Previous scars that grow bigger, development of boils or other swelling on the buttocks that may press on the nerve may then cause pain and numbness in the affected area of the bum and legs such as what could be happening to you.
Surprisingly, even any bone growth- or age-related changes on the cushions or bones of the back may lead to pressure on your nerves resulting in the symptoms you are experiencing.
An X-ray, MRI or a CT scan to the back may show the likely cause. MRI, CT or ultra sound scan of the bum may also show the swelling in the bum that may be pressing the sciatic nerve.
It is advised that injections such as quinine are given in a drip instead of on the bum to avoid injury of the sciatic nerve. Also, trained nurses or doctors should be the only ones allowed to give injections including those on the bums to avoid the likelihood of causing injuries to body structures that may be medically unknown to them.
Sciatica is a condition with symptoms along the course of the sciatic nerve, which forms in the lower spinal cord and courses down the posterior (back) of the leg. The symptoms include pain or paresthesias (numbness, tingling, or pins and needles). Sciatica has different causes and treatments. This article will emphasize holistic and at-home treatments.
Causes of sciatica
Any condition that structurally impinges on the sciatic nerve can cause sciatica. The impingement can occur in the spine, near the nerve root, as caused by degenerative disc disease (like a herniated disc) or spinal stenosis (spinal canal narrowing). In addition, there can be compression as the sciatic nerve moves through the piriformis muscle when it is tight or in spasm.
Obesity is one of the most common correctible causes of sciatica.
Recognising symptoms of sciatica
Sometimes, sciatica can be confused with low back muscular pain. Sciatica can cause lower back pain, but it is usually associated with numbness, tingling, and weakness in the leg and foot. In most cases of low back muscular pain, the pain is focused on the lumbar region and does not radiate to the lower extremities.
Managing sciatic nerve pain
Most cases of sciatic nerve pain resolve independently after a few weeks. Still, some require conservative treatment consisting of prescription medications, physical therapy, injections, and, in rare cases, surgery.
But maybe you're against pharmaceuticals and other traditional medical treatments. Possibly, you'd prefer some natural remedy for sciatica. Well, we've got you covered with the holistic methods discussed below.
Holistic approaches to achieve sciatica pain relief
Some of the methods to relieve sciatica pain include the following.
1. Acupuncture
The theories of acupuncture are based on traditional Chinese medicine involving chi, the vital energy force that moves in pathways called meridians.
Using needles to stimulate acupuncture points along the body's meridians releases chi to help it flow better, decreasing pain.
2. Acupressure
Acupressure is a similar technique to acupuncture. The main difference is that acupressure uses pressure instead of needles.
3. Sciatica stretches
Relieving your sciatica pain may be as simple as performing some stretches for sciatica.
4. Chiropractic care for sciatica
People have stated chiropractic care has been very helpful for their sciatica symptoms. In addition, many chiropractors claim that chiropractic care will cure your sciatica symptoms.
However, the literature on chiropractic care's success in relieving sciatica is lacking. Still, a study published in the 2006 issue of the Spine Journal found that chiropractic spinal manipulation successfully reduced pain in people with back pain, disc disease, and sciatica.
If you want non-pharmacological pain relief, why not try chiropractic care? There have been minimally reported side effects and many people have reported its effective relief.
5. Massage therapy
A manual (hands-on) massage to the lower back, buttocks, hips, and legs can sometimes relieve sciatica pain, especially if caused by a tight piriformis muscle.
For those who cannot afford a professional massage, devices, like massage guns, can be very effective.
6. Exercise
Exercise is very important to help with many medical conditions, especially muscular or nerve pain. It is best to perform the sciatica stretches after some form of cardiovascular exercise since that will allow more blood flow into the muscles for a better stretch.
In addition, since obesity is a cause of sciatica, maintaining a healthy weight through exercise can be very important.
Any type of exercise is fine, but we recommend doing something you enjoy since you are more likely to stick to the exercise program. If the weather is nice, try to exercise outdoors.
7. Lifestyle adjustments
Eating a healthy diet will help keep weight down. It will also give you more energy and make it more likely for you to exercise. Getting more quality sleep will improve your overall well-being.
Are there natural supplements for sciatica relief?
No human studies clearly show how vitamins or nutrition can lead to immediate relief of sciatica pain. However, it has been shown that proper levels of proteins, nutrients, and vitamins are needed for nerve, muscle, and bone functioning.
The natural anti-inflammatory turmeric has gained popularity since people have reported much success.
Another non-pharmaceutical supplement that has patients reporting success in relieving symptoms of sciatica is cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical found in hemp types of marijuana plants. Theoretically, CBD has the pain relief properties of cannabis (marijuana) without causing the psychedelic high.
Home remedies and self-care tips
Besides the treatments mentioned above, there are also remedies that you can try at home to relieve the symptoms of sciatica.
Heat. Use a moist heat pack and apply it to your buttocks, hips, and legs. If you don’t have a heat pack, you can stand in the hot shower for an extra 5 minutes with the water stream on those areas. A jacuzzi or whirlpool is an excellent way to apply moist heat. It’s recommended to use heat before the stretching exercises mentioned above.
Ice. Ice can be more helpful than heat in people with inflammation of the piriformis muscle or sciatic nerve. If you plan on using ice, we recommend using a reusable cold pack with soft-touch fabric to avoid burning the skin. Otherwise, use a towel or cloth with the cold pack. A bag of frozen peas can work for the first few times if no reusable pack is available.
Topicals. Numerous topicals are available for purchase, including CBD (mentioned above), menthol, capsaicin (made from red hot chili peppers), and others.
Meditations. It can help relax all the muscles and nerves throughout the body.
Sciatica is a condition resulting in pain, numbness, or tingling in the posterior leg. Traditional medical treatments involve medications, physical therapy, and injections; however, sciatica can also be treated with holistic and home remedies.
FAQ
Can I manage sciatica without medications?
Yes, sciatica can be managed without medications. Methods, like acupuncture, acupressure, chiropractic, stretching, massage, and exercise, can cure the symptoms.
How long does it take to experience relief with natural remedies for sciatica?
Some experience immediate relief, while others can take longer. For some people, natural remedies will not relieve the symptoms, and professional medical treatment will be required.
Are there some foods to limit when having sciatica?
If having sciatica pain, it's a good idea to avoid fatty, greasy, or high-carbohydrate foods, such as fast food or processed snacks. These foods are known to increase inflammation and can exacerbate sciatic pain. In addition, if these foods cause gastrointestinal upset and lead to numerous bathroom trips, it could add to back pain and sciatica.
Key takeaways:
Sciatica is pain, numbness, and tingling along the course of the sciatic nerve that runs from the lower back down the back of the leg.
Sciatica is caused by conditions that impinge on the sciatic nerve, including a tight piriformis muscle, a herniated disc, or spinal stenosis (canal narrowing).
Holistic approaches for sciatica pain relief include acupuncture, stretching, chiropractic care, massage, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.
Natural supplements, like CBD, can help with sciatica.
Home remedies and self-care tips include heat, ice, topical creams and lotions, and meditation.
Sciatica, which refers to pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the leg, is not a condition but a set of symptoms, Affinity Health CEO Murray Hewlett explained.
“The sciatic nerve runs down each leg from the lower back and buttocks and is the longest nerve in the human body,” Hewlett said.
“Pain of varied degrees can come from irritation or compression of this nerve."
Causes of sciatica
Hewlett explained that several conditions can lead to sciatica, including:
Herniated disc: This occurs when the inner core of a spinal disc protrudes, exerting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Spinal stenosis:Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerve roots, resulting in sciatic symptoms.
Piriformis Syndrome:The sciatic nerve can become irritated when the piriformis muscle in the buttocks spasms or tightens.
Spondylolisthesis: When a vertebra shifts out of its normal position and compresses the nerve, it can lead to sciatica.
Trauma or injury: Spinal injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can potentially cause sciatica.
Degenerative disc disease: Over time, the discs that cushion the vertebrae can degenerate, narrowing the spinal canal and potentially irritating the sciatic nerve.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes in pregnancy relax the ligaments and can render joints unstable, including those of the pelvis.
“The added weight and changes in posture during pregnancy can sometimes exert pressure on the sciatic nerve. The expanding uterus and the baby’s head can rest on the sciatic nerve,” Hewlett said.
Tumours: Rarely, tumours within or near the spine can compress the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.
Infection: Infections affecting the spine, such as spinal osteomyelitis or epidural abscesses, can lead to inflammation and pressure on the sciatic nerve, resulting in sciatica-like symptoms.
Symptoms of sciatica
The most common symptoms of sciatica include sharp, shooting pain in the lower back, buttocks, and down one or both legs. Picture: Supplied
Hewlett said that the most common symptoms of sciatica include sharp, shooting pain in the lower back, buttocks, and down one or both legs.
Other symptoms include numbness or tingling sensation in the legs or feet, pain when sitting or standing for extended periods and, in some cases, difficulty in controlling leg movements.
Diagnosis and treatment
Standard diagnostic procedures for sciatica include:
– A thorough physical examination.
– A study of the patient's medical history.
– Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to pinpoint the source of the pain.
Once diagnosed, Hewlett said, various treatment options were available.
Five ways to relieve sciatica symptoms
While some causes of sciatica are beyond one's control, there are ways to relieve symptoms:
– Consult a health-care professional
If you experience sciatica symptoms, seeking medical evaluation and diagnosis is crucial, Hewlett insisted.
“A physician, chiropractor, or physical therapist can determine the underlying cause of your sciatica and recommend appropriate treatment options.”
– Physical therapy and exercise
A physical therapist can design a personalised exercise programme to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility, he said.
“Exercises may include stretches, core strengthening, and low-impact aerobics activities.”
– Heat and cold therapy
Muscle tension and pain can be alleviated using a heating pad or cold compress, Hewlett suggested. “Some people may respond well to alternating heat and cold treatments.”
– Medications
Over-the-counter medication can help reduce inflammation and relieve mild symptoms.
“To manage severe pain, prescription medications or muscle relaxants may be necessary,” Hewlett recommended.
– Epidural steroid injections
Hewlett explained that epidural steroid injections have proven to be useful for individuals with severe and persistent sciatica pain.
“These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the spinal canal to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain,” he said. “While they can provide temporary relief, they are not a long-term solution and should be used with other therapies.”
Here are Hewlett’s additional tips for sciatica relief
– Maintain good posture:
Proper posture can reduce pressure on the spine and alleviate sciatic pain.
“Avoid sitting for extended periods and use ergonomic chairs and support cushions when necessary,” he said.
– Use lumbar support:
Place a lumbar roll or cushion behind your lower back when sitting to maintain the spine's natural curve.
– Lift objects correctly:
Bend at the knees and use your legs, not your back, to lift heavy objects.
– Sleep on a supportive mattress:
A medium-firm mattress can provide adequate support for the spine and promote proper alignment.
– Practice relaxation techniques:
As stress can exacerbate sciatic pain, Hewlett suggested considering techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress and tension.
"Addressing sciatica requires a combination of treatments, lifestyle modifications, and self-care practices,” he said.
“Working with a health-care professional to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your specific needs is essential.”
When you’re in pain, you need relief. But there are so many options out there, and navigating them can be tricky. The medical professionals at Clarksville Physical Medicine are here to help sort out some solutions.
Question: How do you treat sciatica?
Answer: Sciatica, a condition causing pain along the sciatic nerve, now has a multifaceted solution through cutting-edge physical medicine methods. Integrating spinal decompression, chiropractic care, custom orthotics, and Class 4 medical laser, this comprehensive approach offers new hope for those suffering from sciatic pain.
Spinal decompression, a non-invasive technique, is recognized for its effectiveness in relieving sciatic pain. By gently stretching the spine, decompression creates space between vertebrae, alleviating pressure on the compressed nerves. This method has shown positive results in reducing irritation on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain relief and increased mobility.
Chiropractic care remains a cornerstone in the treatment of sciatica. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to correct misalignments, enhance spinal function, and alleviate nerve pressure. When combined with other physical medicine methods, chiropractic care becomes an integral part of a comprehensive approach to sciatica treatment.
Custom orthotics, personalized shoe inserts designed to address specific foot mechanics, play a crucial role in the holistic treatment of sciatica. By providing support and correcting imbalances, custom orthotics can help improve posture and reduce stress on the lower back, contributing to the overall management of sciatic pain.
Class 4 medical lasers, known for their deep tissue penetration, have emerged as a powerful tool in sciatica treatment. By promoting cellular healing and reducing inflammation, these lasers target the root cause of sciatic pain. Research indicates that Class 4 laser therapy can significantly alleviate pain and improve overall function in individuals with sciatica.
The holistic integration of Class 4 medical laser therapy, spinal decompression, custom orthotics, and chiropractic care offers a promising avenue for individuals seeking a non-drug, non-surgical solution to sciatic pain. As these methods continue to gain recognition for their efficacy, the future of sciatica treatment appears to be moving toward a more personalized and comprehensive approach, addressing the unique needs of each patient.
Do you have shooting pain in your leg? Numbness in the back of your calf or tingling in your foot?
Your symptoms — commonly referred to as sciatica — may be caused by injury or pressure on your spinal nerves.
If sciatica is keeping you from being able to do things you love and affecting your quality of life, treatment is available.
About Sciatica
Unbeknownst to many, sciatica is not a medical condition in and of itself but is a term to describe shooting pain, tingling or numbness anywhere down the leg into the foot. The medical term is lumbar radiculopathy.
Sciatica occurs when there is irritation of one or more of the spinal nerves that start in the lumbar spine, your lower back, and travel toward your legs. Each spinal nerve controls a particular muscle group and area of sensation.
Sciatica typically affects people in middle age, and up to 40% of people in the United States will experience sciatica at some point in their lives, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Causes
One of the most common causes of sciatica is a herniated disc in the lower part of your spine.
Your spine is composed of 33 bones called vertebrae. In between those bones are discs made up of jelly-like substances that act as cushions for your spine.
A herniated disc occurs when part of the disc squeezes through a weakened part in the spine, which can put pressure on the surrounding nerves. Herniated discs are often caused by lifting a heavy object too fast or without proper form.
A herniated disc may cause compression of one of the spinal nerves, which causes irritation, and this irritation is what causes sciatica.
Another common cause of sciatica is stenosis, which means compression of the spinal canal. Compression in the canal sometimes occurs as a consequence of arthritis, where bone spurs and thickened ligaments put pressure on the nerves as they are exiting the canal.
As with a herniated disc, this would cause irritation of the spinal nerves and sciatica.
Symptoms
Sciatic pain can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe.
Many people report a burning pain or electric shock sensation that shoots or radiates down the leg. The pain may be felt anywhere in the legs — from buttocks to the feet — depending on what nerve is irritated. Sometimes patients describe feelings of pain, cramping, or heaviness when walking longer distances.
In some cases, the pain may present as a dull ache or a tingling sensation. In others, people may experience numbness or weakness in the affected leg. Some patients describe their foot getting caught on the ground when walking, a sign of muscle weakness.
Most of the time, the pain occurs on one side or the other. It may get worse:
After standing or sitting
During certain times of the day, such as at night
When sneezing, coughing or laughing, especially if caused by a herniated disc
When bending backward or walking more than a few yards or meters, especially if caused by arthritis
If you have sciatica, don’t ignore it. The longer the nerve is compressed, the greater risk for permanent damage.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Physicians can often diagnose the cause of sciatica by talking with patients about their symptoms and through a physical exam to check for weakness or numbness in the leg and foot.
Imaging tests such as an X-ray and MRI, magnetic resonance imaging, may be recommended. An X-ray detects arthritis or signs of instability, while an MRI shows the nerves, disc herniations, or any other causes of nerve compression. An MRI is considered the gold standard in determining the root of sciatic pain.
The vast majority of patients with sciatica are treated conservatively, meaning that they do not need surgery. Once diagnosed, sciatica can typically be treated with anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the lower back.
If the pain continues, an epidural steroid injection around the nerve root can often calm down the irritation and reduce symptoms. Steroid injections are often administered every three months until the condition resolves.
In some instances, when conservative measures do not help or there is significant weakness, surgery may be recommended to relieve compression on the nerve. There are two main types of decompression surgery, a microdiscectomy and a laminectomy.
A microdiscectomy is the surgical removal of the herniated disc that is compressing the nerve. The remainder of the normal disc is untouched.
A laminectomy is the surgical removal of bone spurs, thickened ligaments, and any other bony or soft tissues that are pressing on the nerve.
Surgeons can perform both microdiscectomy and laminectomy using a minimally invasive approach, which typically results in less pain and faster recovery after surgery. Both surgeries are performed through a small incision in the lower back. Most patients go home the same day or the next morning.
If you are experiencing sciatic pain, see your doctor. With appropriate treatment, you can recover and restore your quality of life.
