What Are the Causes of Sciatic Nerve Damage?

The sciatic nerve runs from the spine down through the leg and controls the muscles in the back of the knee and lower leg. When it becomes injured or compressed, it results in a painful condition called sciatica. Damage to the nerve can occur in many ways.

Slipped Disc

• When the tissue separating the bones of the vertebrae ruptures, it is called a slipped disc. This can put pressure on the nerves around the disc, most commonly the sciatic nerve.

Piriformis Syndrome

• This syndrome causes the piriformis muscle in the rear pelvic area to compress against the sciatic nerve, causing pain and numbness. It often occurs while running or sitting.

Trauma

• Trauma from an accident or fall can cause damage to the sciatic nerve. The most common cause is injury to the hip or pelvic region, which may lead to permanent damage.

Tumors

• Tumors, usually benign, can form in the spinal cord, the membranes that cover it, or the spaces between the vertebrae and can press against the nerves as they grow.

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is caused by narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar region, which runs the length of the spine and holds the nerves that control the legs, including the sciatic nerve.