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Peoplefit Corner - Sciatica
What is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body which runs from your pelvis through your buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg. It controls many of the muscles in your lower legs and provides feeling to your thighs, legs and feet. The term "sciatica" refers to pain that radiates along the path of this nerve - from your back into your buttock and leg.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when a nerve root is compressed in your lower (lumbar) spine. A herniated disk in the low back is the most common cause of sciatic nerve pain. Other conditions can also put pressure on the sciatic nerve causing sciatica, including:
Lumbar spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal. When this narrowing occurs in the lower spine, the lumbar and sacral nerve roots may be affected.
Spondylolisthesis: This condition, often the result of degenerative disk disease, occurs when one vertebra slips slightly forward over another vertebra. The displaced bone may pinch the sciatic nerve where it leaves the spine.
Piriformis syndrome: Piriformis syndrome occurs when the muscle becomes tight or goes into spasms, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Trauma: i.e. car accident
Treatment for Sciatica
Depending on the cause of sciatica and the degree of pain, treatment involves a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a physical therapist, pain medications and thermal modalities. More aggressive treatments include epidural steroid injections and surgery.
How Peoplefit can help
Peoplefit Health and Fitness Center is devoted to improving the health and wellness of people in the greater Woburn community. We use our expertise to create safe and effective individualized exercise programs in order to help you reach your goals. If you would like to speak with a physical therapist about exercise and its effects on any health related condition, please contact us.
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