What Can Damage the Sciatic Nerve?

The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body, stretching from your spinal cord to your buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg. Sciatic nerve damage can be caused by several factors, most relating to injuries or disorders in the lower back.

Significance

• It is important for a doctor to diagnose the underlying cause for sciatic nerve pain because it can be extremely painful and debilitating.

Types of Conditions

• A herniated disc can cause sciatic nerve pain. Herniated discs occur when disc cartilage in the lumbar (spine) region cracks and the inner fluid exerts pressure on the spinal cord. Sciatic nerve pain can also be caused by a degenerative disc in the lower back.

Other Types of Conditions

• Sciatic nerve pain can stem from lumbar spinal stenosis, which causes a constriction in the spinal canal. This condition is more common in people over 60, according to http:www.spine-health.com.

Effects of Piriformis Syndrome

• The sciatic nerve can sometimes become irritated by spasms in the piriformis muscle in the buttocks region. The sciatic nerve runs under this muscle which can press against the nerve and cause pain in the buttocks and legs.

Considerations

• Most of the conditions that cause sciatic nerve pain can be treated without surgery. The most effective treatments include rest, immobilization with back braces, ice, medication and exercise.