What is sciatica and how to treat it

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Let's say right away: this is not a disease, but just a symptom.

What is sciatica

First, let's define the terms. Modern science almost does not use the word "radiculitis". In the course of another - radiculopathy Radiculopathy.

The difference is subtle, but important. "Radiculitis" suggests a kind of independent disease - inflammation of the nerve roots of the spinal cord (from the Latin root radicula - "root" and the ending -it, meaning inflammatory process). But in reality, the nerves do not become inflamed by themselves. This is just a symptom of some other disease or disorder that exists in the body. Therefore, radiculopathy, that is, the pathology of the nerve roots caused by some more global reasons, is a more accurate concept.

But for simplicity, we will still use the word "radiculitis" below. Realizing at the same time that one inflammation of the nerves is not limited here.

Where does sciatica come from

To figure it out, you need to remember how the spine works. Whats to know about radiculopathy? … It is a collection of 33–34 rounded bones (vertebrae) that protect the spinal cord from injury or other damage. From the spinal cord to other areas of the body - the same arms, legs - a whole network of nerves diverges. The part of the nerve near the spinal cord and vertebrae is called the root.

Normally, the spine has an S-like bend, which provides the necessary shock absorption and stability for the whole body. The S "curves" are called the spine. There are five of them:

• cervical - includes 7 vertebrae;
• chest - 12 vertebrae;
• lumbar - 5 vertebrae;
• sacral (the area connecting the spine to the hips) - 5 vertebrae;
• coccygeal - 4–5 vertebrae.

Between all the bones that make up this or that section, there are “layers” - elastic intervertebral discs. They protect bones from abrasion and rapid wear.

This system is well thought out and works great. But sometimes it happens that the intervertebral disc for some reason begins to protrude beyond its intended place and presses on the spinal nerve root located next to it. This becomes the cause of inflammation, that is, sciatica.

However, the vertebral bones themselves can put pressure on the roots if they have been displaced or modified. There are other options as well.

What can cause sciatica

Here is a list of Radiculopathy diseases and disorders that most commonly lead to nerve root compression:

Herniated disc. This is the most popular reason. A hernia may appear due to physical exertion (perhaps you regularly lift something heavy), injury, or excess weight

• Scoliosis. Improper posture can also compress the spinal nerves.
• Degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc (associated, for example, with aging).
• Compression fracture of the spine.
• Spinal stenosis. This is the name of a disease in which the spinal canal narrows - the same one where the bone marrow lies.
• Bone spurs. Sometimes the bone tissue of the vertebrae in some places increases in size. Such spurs can compress both the spinal cord and the spinal nerve roots.
• Spinal tumors.
• Osteoarthritis or arthritis of the spine.
• Thickening (ossification) of the vertebral ligaments.
• Diabetes. In this case, inflammation occurs due to the fact that the nerve fibers receive less blood.
• Cauda equina syndrome. This is the name of damage to the nerve bundle extending from the lower spinal cord.

How to recognize sciatica

The most obvious symptom of sciatica is a sharp and fast, shooting back pain. Signs of Radiculopathy, Whats to know about radiculopathy? may differ depending on which part of the spine the affected nerve is located in.

• Cervical radiculopathy is manifested by pain in the shoulder, upper back, or arm, whether left or right. Regular weakness, numbness, tingling in the fingers of one of the hands, as well as increasing pain when turning the head or tilting the neck can also be symptoms of sciatica in this area.
• Thoracic radiculopathy is rare. Signs include burning or shooting pain in any of the ribs, side, or abdomen, and numbness and tingling in these areas. This type is easily confused with complications caused by herpes zoster, disorders of the heart, gallbladder, and other abdominal organs.
• Lumbar radiculopathy is most common. It makes itself felt with burning pain in the lower back, pain and numbness in the lower back, thighs, buttocks, legs or feet. Symptoms usually worsen with prolonged sitting or walking.

Radiculitis in the sacral and coccygeal regions is the least common and is generally similar to the lumbar.

How to treat sciatica

Only with a doctor. Start with a visit to a therapist - he will listen to your complaints about back and limb pain and, if necessary, will recommend a narrow specialist.

Most often, a description of the symptoms and a physical examination are sufficient to make a diagnosis. But sometimes you need X-rays and electromyography (a test that finds out how nerve fibers conduct signals).

The doctor will treat sciatica based on what kind of disease or disorder caused it. It is clear that prescriptions for scoliosis, tumors and diabetes are different. In some cases (for example, with bone spurs), surgical intervention is indispensable.

But there are general recommendations as well. They include:

• Taking pain relievers or muscle relaxants to relieve pain. When choosing a drug, trust your doctor.
• Weight loss. Your doctor may recommend diet or exercise to help you lose those extra pounds.
• Physiotherapy. Its main goal is to strengthen the muscles and prevent unnecessary stress on the spine. Don't forget about exercises that will ease your back pain.