Sciatica: Do you have pain that travels down your leg?

Sciatica

Sciatica (Si At ika) is a generic term used when someone has pain traveling down the leg. The sciatica nerve is actually a “bundle” of nerve roots that originate in the low back. You have one on the left and one on the right. These nerve roots join together right about at the level of your buttock and continue to make their way down your leg. Each of these individual nerve roots controls a different area of sensation and a different muscular function. An example would be standing on your tip toes or rocking back on your heels. Both of these movements are controlled by two separate nerves. Although the term sciatica describes pain that travels down your leg, it does nothing to tell you the CAUSE of the pain down your leg!  The actual causes can be many. The “pinched” nerve doesn’t really exist, but the nerve roots can become compressed due to mechanical problems such as improper movement in your spine, a muscular spasm that is compressing or pulling on a nerve, or a more complicated problem such as bulging or herniated discs and tumors.  Once the actual cause is found, corrective treatment can begin.  Just because “Aunt Martha” had sciatica that got better over time,  doesn’t mean that the cause of YOUR sciatica is the same.   Don’t guess with your health. If you are having pain into the buttocks or legs, call the office today to be evaluated.  Dr. Costello can find the cause of your sciatica and start you on your way to relief today! Call now!  518-877-0234

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