What Causes Sciatica Pain?

Sciatica pain is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide.

Sciatica pain is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It's a specific nerve pain that begins in the lower back and radiates into the buttocks and legs due to compression. The pain ranges from mild to severe depending on the severity of the condition and affects daily activities such as sitting, walking, and standing.

Let's explore some causes of sciatica pain:

A herniated or slipped disk

A herniated or slipped disk occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disk pushes out through a tear in the outer layer. When this happens, the disk can press against the nearby nerves, causing inflammation and pain. This is a common cause of sciatica pain, and it can be worsened by certain activities, such as lifting heavy objects or twisting the back.

Trauma injury

Car accidents, falls, and other physical traumas can cause damage to the spine, leading to compression or inflammation of the sciatic nerve. This can result in sharp pain, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, buttocks, or legs.

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one spinal vertebra slips out of position and onto the vertebra below. This condition causes the spinal canal to narrow, leading to compression of the nerves in the lower back. Spondylolisthesis is a common cause of sciatica pain, and it can arise from factors such as arthritis, aging, or spinal injuries.

Osteoarthritis

Another condition leading to sciatica pain is osteoarthritis, which is prevalent in older adults. It arises when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints degenerates over time, leading to bone-on-bone contact, inflammation, and pain. Osteoarthritis can affect all joints, including the lower back and hips, resulting in sciatica pain.

Spinal stenosis

Another common cause of sciatica pain is spinal stenosis. This condition occurs when the spinal canal, which contains the nerves that run from the spinal cord to the rest of the body, becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain. Spinal stenosis can arise from degenerative changes in the spine, such as bone spurs, thickened ligaments, or herniated disks.

Rehabilitation for sciatica pain

Rehabilitation is a practical part of treatment for sciatica pain, as it can help to improve mobility, flexibility, and strength in the affected area. Rehabilitation programs meet the patient's needs based on their sciatica pain severity and underlying cause.

Physical therapy is crucial for those experiencing issues with this particular nerve pain. It may involve exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. These techniques reduce inflammation and relieve pain. A physical therapist may also guide proper posture and body mechanics to prevent future injuries and reduce strain on the spine.

Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.