The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back to the toes through the upper buttocks, and it is the largest nerve within the body. When the sciatic nerve is irritated by spinal mis-alignments and other conditions, sciatica pain frequently occurs. Low back pain that radiates down the back of the legs may occur when the nerve is irritated or compressed.
Potential causes of sciatica include:
Disc herniation: Spinal discs provide a cushion between spinal vertebras. A hernia in the disc happens when the disc moves out of its normal boundary due to either degeneration, abrupt movement or an injury. Pain results because the bulging tissue impinges upon the sciatic nerve.
Injury: A sacroiliac or pelvic fracture causes lesions responsible for placing pressure on the nerves located in the lumbar spinal plexus, or low back. The sciatic nerve runs along the hamstrings and an injury in that area can compress the nerve and lead to inflammation of the tendons.
Infections: While not very common, some infections can cause an abscess which compounds pain along the sciatic nerve. Infections in this region occur due to problems in the pelvic region, gastro-intestinal diseases such as Crohn's Disease, an inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, or complications after surgery.
Piriformis Injury: The sciatic nerve may become compressed due to an injury of the piriformis muscle or another disorder and is called piriformis syndrome. The piriformis muscle is located in the gluteal area. Pain symptoms within the buttocks occur when a patient has sat for a long period of time.
Sciatica Causes and Treatment Gilbert AZ 85234, 85296
Lower back problems can begin at the top of the spine. Imagine a chain link -- when the first link is turned, all links below are affected. To learn more about treatment specific to your situation and to schedule a free consultation, call 480-525-7841. The doctors at Foresight Chiropractic Wellness Center are Board Certified Atlas Orthogonal, upper cervical specialist, providing very gentle and precise care specific to each patient. For the premier chiropractic wellness center in the valley, call today to get your health back on track.
