Sciatica: Back And Leg Pain Exposed

Sciatica pain is caused by irritation and inflammation of the sciatic nerve. There are 4 reasons for the development of sciatica. Any, or a combination of these conditions can account for back and leg pain. And, when you know why sciatica happens, you can treat it more effectively.

Condition #1 - Piriformis Syndrome
This is the most common cause of sciatic pain and is created when a tight piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve. The piriformis is a small muscle that runs from the tailbone to the hip joint. The sciatic nerve courses over the top of the piriformis on its way down the back of the leg. In cases where the muscle is tight or becomes irritated due to external pressure (such as sitting on a wallet), sciatic nerve irritation often ensues.

Condition #2 - Herniated Discs
Sciatic pain can also be caused by irritation of the nerve roots that ultimately form the sciatic nerve by a herniated or bulging disc. In this case, the disc protrudes into the space occupied by the nerve as it exits the spine. The friction created by the nerve interacting with the bulging disc causes the sciatic symptoms.

Condition #3 - Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the space through which the nerve exits the spine can also cause sciatica. The reason for spinal stenosis is usually related to the disc losing some its height. Disc height loss is a consequence of aging and genetics

Condition #4 - Spondylolisthesis
A much less common reason for sciatica is spondylolisthesis, Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebrae slips forward on the vertebrae below it and, as a result, creates narrowing of the opening through which the nerve exits the spine.

Now, with the exception of piriformis syndrome, the changes that occur with these conditions are irreversible. But that doesn’t mean these conditions can’t be treated effectively.

To treat these conditions, you MUST treat what sparked the problem in the first place. In most cases, that involves imbalances in the muscles that support the spine.

The Erase Your Back Pain program addresses these muscle imbalances through very specific corrective exercises. Find out how here: No More Back Pain!

I welcome your questions and comments. Let me hear from you by filling out the form below. I promise to personally answer each question or comment.

Dedicated To Erasing Your Back Pain,

Malton A. Schexneider, PT, MMSc
Clinical Specialist
Orthopaedic Physical Therapy