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Dr. Philip Di Filippo

Leg & Back Pain: Is It Sciatica? Part One of a Two Part Series

Pain, stinging or burning that starts in the low back and travels, or ‘shoots’ down into the butt, knee, heel or toe is an incredibly common symptom for Sciatica. But, did you know that this symptom is a hallmark sign of Piriformis Syndrome as well?

Sciatica and Piriformis Syndrome are two conditions that can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs. While they share similar symptoms, they have distinct causes and risk factors.

What is Piriformis Syndrome? How can I tell the difference between it and Sciatica? These questions are what this blog series is dedicated to answering.

While writing this blog, I found it quite difficult to lay out the definitions, causes and treatment options in a simple and clear way that made sense. So, in order to make the most of out of this topic, I have decided to write a two-part blog. This weeks’ post will be dedicated to outlining and explaining Sciatica.

Today we will discuss what Sciatica is, what its’ symptoms are, and how to handle it. Next week, we will discuss Piriformis Syndrome and how the two conditions compare to each other.

Part 1: Sciatica


What Is Sciatica?


The diagnosis of Sciatica refers to the compression or irritation of the Sciatic Nerve, the largest nerve in the body. It runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, down each leg, and extends to the feet.

Some potential causes or risk factors of Sciatica can be the following:


Disc-related issues: The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated or bulging disc in the spine. When the disc protrudes and presses against one of the nerves that contribute to the Sciatic Nerve, it leads to compression. There are four levels of the spine that contribute to the Sciatic nerve and they can be visualized below.


a nerve map of several spinal levels that create the sciatic nerve
This highlights the several spinal levels that contribute to the Sciatic Nerve

Spinal abnormalities: Structural conditions like spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or degenerative disc disease can narrow the spinal canal and put pressure on the nerve roots, resulting in sciatica. Spinal abnormalities like these mentioned may be confirmed via x-ray imaging or MRI.

Age-related factors: As we age, the discs in the spine naturally degenerate, making older individuals more susceptible to sciatica. Especially if there is a history of Motor Vehicle Accidents, workplace injuries, or falls causing trauma or fractures.

Occupation-related factors: Jobs involving heavy lifting, prolonged sitting or standing, repetitive movements, or excessive vibration can increase the risk of developing sciatica.

Lifestyle factors: Obesity, sedentary lifestyle or occupations with excessive sitting can contribute to increased pressure on the spine and raise the risk of sciatica.


How Can You Treat Sciatica?


Given the many potential causes of Sciatica, a thorough examination, history taking, and correct diagnosis is key in the administration of an effective care plan. If the Sciatica is due to a disc herniation, you have different options than if it were from a Scoliosis, for example.


If the Sciatica is due to a disc herniation, you can go through rehabilitative exercises, spinal decompression techniques, and strength training. If it due to spinal abnormalities, you may need to consider visiting a specialist.


To correctly map out a care plan, consider visiting our Chiropractors at Rosedale Chiropractic & Massage for an examination and course of action,


Conclusion


I hope it has become evident that Sciatica, although often described as ANY pain that may start in the back and go into the leg, is actually much more nuanced and complicated than most people think. That symptom of pain and burning down the leg, may be more than one thing. A true sciatica is often a disc herniation, spinal abnormality or spinal compression that will manifest as a burning and tingling. But is it not the only thing that manifests that way.


Next week, we will discuss Piriformis Syndrome. It’s causes, it’s treatment and then discuss how to tell which you are dealing with.


If you are experiencing persistent pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, hips, buttocks, or legs, you may want to consider making an appointment at Rosedale Chiropractic & Massage in Hamilton to have your specific case examined, diagnosed and treated. Our healthcare professionals can evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and potentially order diagnostic tests to determine the precise cause of your condition.

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