Sciatica

The sciatic nerves are the largest nerves in your body. They exit from your backbone, extend down from the lower back, one on each side, through the hips and buttocks, all the way down the leg. When anything compresses either one of them, it becomes inflamed (chemical reaction to irritation or injury) and produces pain in the lower back which shoots down the respective leg. This is known as ‘Sciatica’ and typically it would affect only one side of your body.

Most commonly, a herniated disk is responsible for causing sciatica. Your spine is made of multiple bones (vertebrae) vertically stacked upon each other, like a pile of boxes, with rubbery cushions (disks) between the individual bones. Herniation is when a disk slips out of place and presses on the surrounding nerve(s). Other causes of sciatica include:

• A bony outgrowth from spinal bone (known as bone spur)

• Abscess

• Blood clot

• Backbone disorders (spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis)

• Tumour

• Piriformis syndrome – prolonged contraction of a deep muscle in the buttocks

• Poor posture/prolonged sitting

Consequently we can say that aging is a risk factor, as a herniated disk and bone spur are age-related changes in your backbone. Obesity and diabetes also elevate chances of sciatica. When lifting heavy objects, it is imperative that you use your leg/thigh muscle instead of putting strain on your back. Forces on your backbone are exaggerated if you try to twist while lifting something large and heavy, again leading to disk herniation.

When to seek expert advise

It is best to get an appointment with the Musculoskeletal and Sports Medicine Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital if you ever notice such type of pain. Getting appropriate assistance at the right time will count towards a better outcome and prevent permanent nerve damage. 

You can also consult the Family Health Services for continuous screenings or a preliminary examination.

However, at any time if you come across the following complaints, seek immediate medical attention at the earliest and do not hesitate to consult the 24/7 Emergency and Acute Care Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital:

• The pain occurs after a rough injury (like a tr​affic accident)
  

• Loss of feeling in the ‘saddle’ region (inner thighs, back of legs and area around rectum)
  

• Weakness or numbness in the affected leg 
  

• Loss of bowel or bladder control
  

• Tingly feeling in leg​​​

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