Sciatica

Symptoms Caused by Irritation of the Sciatic Nerve

Sciatica

Sciatica is a term used to describe symptoms arising from irritation of the sciatic nerve. Patients that are experiencing "sciatica" may feel pain, numbness, or tingling anywhere in the back of the leg (buttock, thigh, calf, heel) or in the feet or toes. Sciatica symptoms are usually worsened by lifting, straining or coughing. Click here for more details about lower extremity nerve irritation.

The sciatic nerve is one of the largest nerves in the body. It starts in the low back where it exits the spinal cord and passes by the discs and joints in the low back area. It continues from the low back into the buttock, then into the back of the thigh and leg and proceeds all the way down to the foot and toes. The sciatic nerve controls sensation, reflexes, and muscle function in various areas of the leg and foot. Sciatica is usually accompanied by low back pain.

What are a few possible causes of sciatic nerve irritation or "sciatica?"

1. Disc injuries that press on the sciatic nerve as it leaves the spinal cord
2. Swelling or excessive fluid from a sprain/strain injury in the low back
3. Muscle spasms in the buttock where the sciatic nerve passes by
4. Bone growths (spurs) in the opening of the vertebrae where the sciatic nerve exits the spinal cord

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