The following is some anatomy on the sciatic nerve. It may better help understand what may cause Sciatica.
There are fiver major regions of the spinal column. Beginning at the top (neck) are 7 vertebrae that form the cervical region, 12 vertebrae in the chest region form the thoracic region, 5 vertebrae in the lower back form the lumbar region which seems to give we humans the most problems and pain, The last region is the sacral region. It's a large single bone that is formed by the fusion of 5 smaller vertebrae. Below that is the coccyx.
Sciatic nerve fibers begin at the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebra (the L4, L5) and the first few segments of the sacrum. The nerve passes through the sciatic foramen just below the piriformis muscle (rotates the thigh laterally), to the back of the extension of the hip and to the lower part of the gluteus maximus (muscle in the buttock that helps with thigh extension). As it runs through the sciatic foramen and gluteus max it is in close proximately to the SIJ. Problems or dysfunction of the SI Joint can cause pain in the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve then runs vertically downward into the back of the thigh, behind the knee and branches into the hamstring muscles (calf) and further downward to the feet. Pain may be felt all along the back of the thigh and into the foot when nerve is compressed, inflamed or irritated in L4 and L5 area.
An MRI will best reveal abnormalities of the spine however your PCP may want to preform other less costly tests first.
I hope this has been helpful.
Take Care,
~Tuck
I received your message and am sending you the link to this post.
I have commented as promised. If you have additional questions please feel free to ask..
My Best to You,
~Tuck
Hi Medline,
First let me apologize for my tardy response to your question. We view all questions and concerns as important, occasionally we miss one. I'm so sorry that happened to yours. I have left you a message also. I hope you are still monitoring our site.
I am not an expert and my suggestions should not be a substitute for a consult with your medical provider.
The pain you describe sounds as if it could be sciatica. Sciatica refers to inflammation, irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. This large nerve extends from the lower back down the back of each leg. When the nerve is compromised the pain can be excruciating.
There are several conditions that can cause or contribute to Sciatica. Some of those conditions include Spondylolisthesis, lumbar stenosis, DDD (degenerative disc disease) or similar conditions. SIJD (Sacroiliac joint Dysfunction) may also cause Sciatica though the pain does not normally travel past the knee.
The obvious suggestion is to consult your medical provider. He/She can begin testing to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Sciatica is a symptom and not a true condition.
Depending upon your diagnosis there are multiple approaches to treating the pain and/or condition causing it. Until you consult your medical provider you may want to avoid anything that makes your symptoms worse. Ask your pharmacist to suggest an OTC NSAID (non steroidal anti-inflammatory) that may be effective in reducing the pain and inflammation. rotating cold and hot packs may also be beneficial.
Please let us know how you are doing. We'll look forward to your updates.
Take Care,
~Tuck