Sciatica: How this nerve pain can be prevented

Any sort of pain caused by irritation or sciatica nerve is called sciatica. The sciatica nerve is longest nerve in our body running from back of our pelvis, through buttocks, and all the way down both legs, ending at feet.

The pain of sciatica is usually felt in the buttocks and legs.

For majority of people it goes away naturally within few weeks, although in some cases it can last for a year or most.

Symptoms of sciatica

Sciatica can cause following symptoms

·        pain

·        numbness

·        a tingling sensation that radiates from your lower back and travels down one of your legs to your foot and toes

·        weakness in the calf muscles or the muscles that move the foot and ankle

The pain may range from mild to very painful and may be made worse by sneezing, coughing or sitting for long period of time. The pain associated with sciatica usually affects the buttocks and legs more than back.

When to seek advice

If symptoms are persistent, severe and getting worse over time, it is a time to seek advice from a physician.  A simple test known as the passive straight leg raise test can also help identify whether you have sciatica.

This test involves lying flat on your back with your legs straight, and lifting one leg at a time. If lifting one of your legs causes pain or makes your symptoms worse, this usually suggests sciatica.

You need to immediately see a doctor if you experience all of them.

·        tingling or numbness between your legs and around your buttocks

·        recent loss of bladder or bowel control, or both 

·        sciatica in both of your legs

Although it's rare, these symptoms can be a sign of a serious condition called cauda equina syndrome.

Preventing sciatica

You can minimize your risk of a further episode of sciatica by:

·        adopting a better posture and lifting techniques at work

·        stretching before and after exercise

·        exercising regularly

While sleeping, your mattress should be firm enough to support your body while supporting the weight of your shoulders and buttocks, keeping your spine straight.

If your mattress is too soft, place a firm board under the mattress. Support your head with a pillow, but make sure your neck isn't forced up at a steep angle.