What Are the Symptoms of Sciatic Rheumatism?

Sciatic rheumatism, also known simply as "sciatica," is a condition in which the sciatic nerve is pinched or compressed. The sciatic nerve runs down the back and into the buttocks, hips and legs, and symptoms usually occur in these areas.

Sciatic Rheumatism

• Sciatic rheumatism is itself a symptom of an underlying problem--usually a herniated spinal disk, although spinal stenosis, a slipped vertebrae, a tumor on the spine or sciatic nerve, and trauma are some of the other conditions that can provoke sciatic rheumatism. Sometimes, the underlying cause cannot be found.

Pain

• Pain is a symptom of sciatic rheumatism; this pain can range from mild to severe and usually runs from the back down one leg.

Tingling

• The affected limb may feel as if you've deprived it of blood--the "pins-and-needles" feeling.

Numbness

• Total numbness in part of the leg is a symptom of sciatic rheumatism.

Bladder/Bowel Control

• A serious symptom of sciatic rheumatism is loss of bladder or bowel control. This loss of control is a sign of cauda equina syndrome, which can cause paralysis--see your doctor right away if this symptom occurs.