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Ever had back pain that travels down your leg? It may be caused by sciatica. According to the , sciatica isn’t a diagnosis. It’s a symptom.Ìý

How Sciatica DevelopsÌý

Stretching from your lower back to the foot, the sciatic nerve is your body’s largest nerve. It sends signals to various muscles, from your thigh to the bottom of your foot, allowing you to move when and how you want.Ìý

​​​​​When your sciatic nerve does its job properly, you go about daily life without a second thought. If sciatica sets in, that changes. Suddenly, you feel significant pain.Ìý

Though more likely to occur in men between 30 and 50 years of age, sciatica can affect anyone. In many cases, sciatica may arise due to one of the following:Ìý

No matter the cause, sciatica causes pain in the back and anywhere the sciatic nerve journeys. The classic symptom is a burning sensation, tingling or pins-and-needles going down the leg. You may also experience numbness and weakness.Ìý

These symptoms may get worse at certain times of the day or when sitting down or standing up. Finding the source of the problem is often the first step toward relief.Ìý

Uncovering the RootÌý

Diagnosing sciatica typically begins with a discussion of your medical history and a physical examination. If your pain lasts a long time or is extremely severe, your provider may order additional tests to get to the bottom of your issue.Ìý

The Physical ExamÌý

During your physical exam, your provider may have you do the following:Ìý

By performing these simple tasks, you help your provider determine the presence of sciatica and the root cause. Your provider may also test your reflexes and sensation in affected areas.Ìý

Additional Tests for SciaticaÌý

In the event your sciatica requires additional testing, you may undergo imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI. This is particularly helpful if your pain is caused by a bulging or herniated disc since imaging can provide a visualization of the disc.Ìý

Finding Sciatica ReliefÌý

As frustrating as sciatica pain can be, most of these symptoms will resolve naturally on their own without any need for intervention or surgery.Ìý

When the pain won’t go away, visit your primary care provider or a pain management specialist. These experts can help determine the cause of your sciatica and develop a treatment plan.Ìý

Depending on the source of your sciatica, you may benefit from a variety of treatment ​​​​approaches.Ìý

DIY Pain ReliefÌý

There are steps you can take to ease your sciatica pain on your own. To find relief in the comfort of your home, try the following:Ìý

Seeking Help for Sciatica PainÌý

If time and home care don’t bring sciatica relief, seek professional help. Treatment options offered by Â鶹¸ßÇå experts include:Ìý

Still the Best TreatmentÌý

At some point in life, 80 percent of all Americans will experience lower back pain, according to the . Despite the odds, you can reduce your risk for back or leg pain brought on by sciatica. To sidestep pain tomorrow, take healthy steps today.Ìý

Exercising regularly and maintaining good core strength and good lift mechanics, such as lifting with your legs and not your back, are important to prevent sciatica from happening.Ìý

Need help managing back, leg or other pain? Find a doctor at Â鶹¸ßÇå to lend a hand.Ìý