One unfortunate twist, one wrong bend - and it's already happened: It stings and hurts in the back, the pain even radiates to the legs, buttocks, the back of the knee or the feet. This indicates a problem with the sciatic nerve. The effects can keep the patient confined to bed for days and make normal movements a real pain.
Here you will find further information and selected sciatica specialists and centers.
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body. It connects the spinal cord to the legs. The fibers of this nerve, which are formed in the lowest part of the spine, control the movement of the muscles.
The sciatic nerve causes severe pain when it becomes
is irritated. It is nerve pain, not tense muscles.
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body. It connects the spinal cord with the leg muscles © Nathan Devery com | AdobeStock
The symptoms are also known as sciatica or sciatica syndrome.
Spontaneous pain in the back after an unfortunate movement initially suggests lumbago. However, these symptoms must be distinguished from those of sciatic pain: With lumbago, the pain is limited exclusively to the back area. Sciatica pain can also radiate down to the feet and lead to numbness.
Some patients also suffer from a combination of both symptoms. This is known as lumbo-ischialgia.
The symptoms of normal sciatica can occur very spontaneously. The affected person can no longer move properly and the pain is also present at night. It starts in the lower back and radiates to the buttocks
feet. As a result, muscle tension can occur due to the cramp-like posture. This can also cause pain or restrict mobility.
There are various reasons for sciatica irritation:
Women during pregnancy can also suffer from sciatica, for example if the unborn child presses on the nerve.
Piriformis syndrome, which involves the gluteal muscles and is characterized by compression of the sciatic nerve, can also cause discomfort.
In the acute phase of sciatica pain, rest is one of the most effective methods of relieving the pain to some extent. The person affected should try to lie down and avoid straining themselves. Legs and hip joints should form a right angle.
Heat has also proven effective for sciatica. Heat improves blood circulation and relieves tension and cramps. If you have a cherry stone cushion, you can use this: The stones store the heat over a longer period of time.
If the problems become too severe, medication can be taken for sciatica pain. Painkillers ensure that the sufferer does not cramp up any further. Cramps can make the pain worse and increase the pressure on the already strained nerve.
If it is "only" pain, the patient can wait a few days before seeking medical treatment. However, if neurological symptoms develop, you should definitely consult a doctor. Neurological problems often occur with sciatica.
After a physical examination, the doctor will prescribe specific medication or inject it directly. Painkillers or muscle relaxants may be used.
Other treatment methods include physiotherapy. This also helps with regaining mobility.
Mud packs or heat lamps can also have a supportive effect. They help to relieve possible tension and cramps.
There is no one hundred percent protection against sciatica pain or lumbo-ischialgia. However, patients can do their bit to reduce the risk a little.
Targeted development of the supporting back muscles is a tried and tested method. A strong back "forgives" the odd mistake. The muscles are so much better able to absorb stress.
Back training has also proven its worth. Here, the patient learns how to put as little strain as possible on their back during everyday activities, such as sitting or lifting objects. Otherwise, incorrect strain and incorrect posture could encourage the development of sciatica.
Relaxation exercises are also important. Patients can incorporate exercises into their daily routine to reduce the risk of tension and cramps.
The Leading Medicine Guide's quality assurance is ensured by the following acceptance prerequisites.
