Sciatica (ischialgia) – causes, symptoms and treatment

Sciatica, also known as ischialgia, is a painful condition that can significantly impact the quality of life of the affected person. In this article, we will discuss what exactly sciatica is, its causes, symptoms, and various treatment and rehabilitation methods to help patients understand the condition and find effective ways to alleviate it.

What is sciatica (ischialgia)?

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain in the lower back and pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower spine to the leg. The sciatic nerve is one of the longest nerves in the body, and its compression or irritation can lead to severe pain.

Sciatica – causes

The causes of sciatica can be various, but are most often related to compression of the sciatic nerve. The main factors causing this disease are:

• Hernia of the lumbar spine
• Degeneration of the spine
• Inflammation of the sciatic nerve
• Spasm of the gluteal muscles
• Spinal injuries or fractures

Symptoms of sciatica – where does it hurt during an attack?

Symptoms of sciatica can be very bothersome. The most common signs of this disease are:

• Severe pain in the lower back area
• Drilling pain radiating along the sciatic nerve to the buttock, thigh and foot
• Tingling or numbness in the legs
• Difficulty moving and performing daily activities

Diagnostics and diagnosis of sciatica

Diagnosing sciatica requires a thorough medical examination and medical history. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to more accurately assess the condition of your spine and sciatic nerve.

Treatment of sciatica. what does treatment or rehabilitation look like and how long does it take?

Treatment of sciatica can be both pharmacological and non-pharmacological. In case of pain, patients are often advised to take painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. If the cause is a spinal hernia, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Rehabilitation plays a key role in the recovery process. Physical therapists can help with stretching muscles, improving posture, and strengthening muscles, which can reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Sciatica – physiotherapy and exercises for sciatica

Physiotherapy is an important element of sciatica treatment. A rehabilitation specialist can tailor an exercise program that will help strengthen your muscles, increase spine flexibility, and reduce pain. Exercises to stretch the gluteal and thigh muscles and strengthen the abdominal and back muscles can provide relief for patients with sciatica.

Prevention of sciatica

To prevent sciatica, it is worth maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity, maintaining proper body posture and avoiding excessive load on the spine are key aspects of prevention. People who work at a desk should also take care of ergonomic working conditions.

Your suggestions

If you have any suggestions regarding sciatica or would like to share your experience with this disease, please contact us and share your knowledge on the subject.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in spine health and the ailment of sciatica, we recommend reading our other articles on this topic. You will find additional information and tips on the treatment and prevention of this condition.

It is worth remembering that sciatica can be difficult and painful, but appropriate treatment and rehabilitation can help patients return to full fitness and enjoy an active life without pain.