What is sciatica and how to treat it

What is sciatica

To start to define the terms. The word "sciatica" modern science has hardly enjoyed. In the course of another - radiculopathyRadiculopathy.

The difference here is subtle but important. "Sciatica" implies some kind of independent disease - inflammation of the nerve roots of the spinal cord (from the Latin root radicula - «back» and end -it, meaning inflammation). But in fact, not the nerves become inflamed by themselves. This is only a symptom of some other disease or disorders that exist in the body. Therefore, radiculopathy, that is a pathology of the nerve roots caused by some more global causes - the concept more precise.

But for simplicity, we still use the word "sciatica". It being understood that one inflammation of the nerves it's not limited.

Where does sciatica

To understand, we must remember how the spineWhats to know about radiculopathy?. It is a set of 33-34 rounded bones (vertebrae) that protect the spinal cord from the injury or other damage. From the spinal cord to other areas of the body - in the same hands, feet - diverges whole network of nerves. Part of the nerve near the spinal cord and the vertebrae called the spine.

The normal spine has a bend like the letter S - it provides the necessary cushioning and stability of the entire body. Components S «curves» called spine. Five of them:

• Neck - includes seven vertebrae;
• Thoracic - 12 vertebrae;
• Lumbar - 5 vertebrae;
• sacral (region connecting spine with hips) - 5 vertebrae;
• coccyx - 4-5 vertebrae.

Between all the components of a particular department bones provided 'layer' - elastic intervertebral discs. They protect the bones from friction and rapid wear.

The system is well thought out and works fine. But sometimes it happens that the intervertebral disc, for some reason starts to stick out beyond the position it places and presses on adjacent root of the spinal nerve. This causes inflammation, ie sciatica.

However, pressure on the roots are themselves vertebral bone if they moved or modified. There are other options.

What can cause sciatica

Here is a listRadiculopathy diseases and disorders, which often leads to compression of the nerve roots:

• Herniated disk. This is the most popular reason. Hernia can occur due to exercise (perhaps you regularly pick up something heavy), injury, or excess weight.

• Scoliosis. When improper posture may also squeezed spinal nerves.
• Degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc (such as those associated with aging).
• A compression fracture of the spine.
• spinal stenosis. So we call a disease in which the spinal canal narrows - the one where lies the bone marrow.
• Bone spurs. Sometimes the bone of the vertebrae in some places increases in size. These spurs can compress both the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots.
• Tumors of the spine.
• Arthritis or osteoarthritis of the spine.
• Thickening (ossification) vertebrates ligaments.
• Diabetes. In this case, the inflammation occurs due to the fact that nerve fibers do not get enough blood.
• cauda equina syndrome. So called damage nerve bundle extending from the lower portion of the spinal cord.

How to recognize sciatica

The most obvious symptom of sciatica - sharp and fast, shooting back pain. evidenceRadiculopathy, Whats to know about radiculopathy? They may differ depending on which of the spine is injured nerve.

• 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 hand, and increasing pain when turning head or necks can also be symptoms of sciatica in this area.
• Thoracic radiculopathy is rare. Her symptoms include burning or shooting pain in any of the edges, side or stomach, numbness and tingling in these areas. This species 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 searing pain in waist sweep the area, pain and numbness in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, or feet. Symptoms typically intensify when prolonged sitting or walking.

Sciatica in the sacral and coccygeal sections of the least common and generally similar to the lumbar.

How to treat sciatica

Only together with the doctor. Start with a visit to a therapist - he will listen to your complaints backache and limbs, and, if necessary, will recommend a specialist.

Most often, to make a diagnosis, it is sufficient description of symptoms and a physical examination. But sometimes we need roentgen and electromyography (test, it appears as a nerve fibers conduct signals).

Treat sciatica doctor will be based on the fact what kind of disease or disorder was the cause. It is clear that the purpose for scoliosis, tumors and diabetes differ. In some cases (for example, bone spurs) can not do without surgery.

But there are general guidelines. They include:

• Admission painkillers or muscle relaxants to relieve pain. When choosing a product, trust your doctor.
• Weight loss. The doctor may recommend a diet or exercise, which will help get rid of the extra kilos.
• Physiotherapy. Its main objective - to strengthen muscles and prevent excessive strain on the spine. Do not forget about exercisesThat reduce back pain.