Sciatica
Symptoms
The most common symptom of sciatica is low
back pain combined with pain through the buttocks
and down the leg. The pain continues throughout
the legs, sometimes past the knees and the
feet. Sciatica can be a painful condition
causing temporary weakness and numbness in
the legs. Sciatica is caused by irritation
or pressure to the sciatic nerve. The pinched
or herniated sciatic nerve can be extremely
painful causing disability and recurrent pain.
Most people are unaware that they have a problem
with the their sciatic nerve until they experience
this pain. Sciatica sufferers describe a shooting
pain that starts in the lower back, and continues
down one leg. Certain movements aggravate
this pain. The pain is often worse after prolonged
sitting or standing in one position making
attending sporting events, concerts, and other
social occasions difficult for the sciatica
suffer. These activities may cause a prolonged
burning or tingling feelings in the buttocks
or legs, making them much less enjoyable.
Sciatica
pain is worsened by common day-to-day activities
as well. Sneezing coughing laughing excessive
exercise and other strenuous activities can
aggravate sciatica pain. Sciatica affects
every part of the sufferer’s day-to-day life,
making even normal activities difficult. Bending
backwards, lifting items, and exercising can
all contribute to sciatica pain. The sciatica
sufferer must choose their activities for
the day carefully, keeping in mind what will
and will not cause them pain.
Sciatica sufferers also may notice weakness
as well. This feeling is similar to what happens
when your foot or leg falls asleep, but is
much more severe for those who suffer from
sciatica. The weakness sometimes become so
bad that sufferers cannot move the affected
foot. This may make it difficult to stand
if the sufferer has been sitting for a prolonged
period of time.
Sciatica
symptom ranges from severe and disabling pain
to mild and irritating. For some sufferers
it may be a mild inconvenience, while for
others, it may drastically affect their lifestyle.
Living with sciatica pain isn't easy, but
it can be done. If you suffer from sciatica
pain, consult your doctor today to find out
what they recommend to help you cope.
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