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Reasons for Sciatica

Sciatica is a pain felt in the lower back and down the leg, along the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in your body. According to the website Chiropractic Santa Monica, sciatica is one of the most common complaints in people between the ages of 30 and 50, although it does occur in people older than age 50.

  1. Herniated Disk

    • One reason for sciatica is a herniated disk, which occurs when the lumbar disk, located in the lower spinal column, bulges. This bulge compresses the sciatic nerve, causing inflammation and pain.

    Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

    • Another cause of sciatica is the nerve disorder lumbar spinal stenosis. This disorder is the result of constant compression of the spine. Lumbar spinal stenosis mostly affects elderly people. The pain of sciatica is usually brought on in certain positions, such as bending or standing.

    Spondylolisthesis

    • Sciatica can result from spondylolisthesis, a condition associated with the slipping of spinal vertebrae over one another. The slipped vertebrae compress the roots of the spinal nerves, causing the pain associated with sciatica.

    Trauma

    • Another reason for sciatica is direct injury to the lower back. This can be caused by a motor vehicle accident, falling, sports injuries or bending incorrectly.

    Spinal Tumors

    • Spinal tumors are benign or malignant growths on the spine. These tumors are rare, but if they occur, they can grow large enough to compress the sciatic nerve, causing inflammation and pain.

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