Sciatica

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is not a diagnosis itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying problem affecting the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the body, originating from several nerve roots in the lower back, joining to form a single nerve that travels through the buttocks, down the back of the leg, and branches off into smaller nerves that extend to the foot and toes.

Sciatica typically occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated, compressed, or inflamed. Common causes include:

• Lumbar Disc Herniation / Bulging Disc: This is the most frequent cause, where the soft inner material of an intervertebral disc pushes out and presses directly on the sciatic nerve roots in the lower back.

• Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, which can put pressure on the nerves.

• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle (located deep in the buttock) can sometimes compress the sciatic nerve as it passes through or under it. This is a common non-spinal cause of sciatica-like symptoms.

• Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, potentially pinching the nerve.

• Muscle Spasms: Severe muscle tightness in the lower back or buttocks can directly irritate the nerve.

The irritation of the sciatic nerve leads to symptoms that often extend beyond just the back, affecting the pathway of the nerve. As experienced osteopaths in Mallorca, we specialize in identifying the specific cause of your sciatica to provide targeted and effective relief.

How does it feel?

Sciatica is characterized by distinct symptoms that radiate along the path of the sciatic nerve, often from the lower back down one leg. The intensity and nature of the pain can vary significantly. Common sensations and issues associated with sciatica include:

• Radiating Pain: This is the hallmark symptom. Pain that typically starts in the lower back or buttock and shoots down the back or side of one leg. It can extend all the way to the foot and toes. The pain is often described as sharp, shooting, burning, or electric.

• Numbness or Tingling: A "pins and needles" sensation or a complete loss of feeling in parts of the leg or foot along the nerve's path.

• Muscle Weakness: Difficulty moving the leg or foot, or a feeling of weakness in the affected limb. In severe cases, this can lead to "foot drop," where you can't lift the front part of your foot.

• Worsening Pain with Certain Movements: Pain often intensifies with prolonged sitting, standing, coughing, sneezing, bending forward, or twisting.

• Difficulty Walking or Standing: The pain and weakness can make it challenging to walk, stand upright, or shift weight comfortably.

• Foot Pain or Numbness: Symptoms can extend into the foot, affecting specific toes or areas, depending on which part of the nerve is compressed.

How Can Osteopathy Help?

For those experiencing the distinctive radiating pain of sciatica, our Osteopathic Treatment at MallorcaOsteopaths offers a targeted and holistic approach. We focus on identifying and alleviating the underlying pressure or irritation on the sciatic nerve, which is crucial for lasting relief.

Our osteopathic treatment for sciatica focuses on:

1. Reducing Nerve Compression and Irritation: Through gentle, non-invasive manual techniques, we work to create more space around the irritated sciatic nerve roots in the lower back and along its pathway. This can help alleviate direct pressure on the nerve, reducing radiating pain and numbness.

2. Releasing Muscle Spasm and Tension: We target tight muscles in the lower back (including those contributing to low back pain), buttocks (like the piriformis muscle), and hamstrings that may be directly compressing the nerve or causing compensatory pain.

3. Restoring Spinal and Pelvic Mobility: We use specific articulation and mobilization techniques to improve the movement of the lumbar spine and pelvis. Restoring proper alignment and mobility in these key areas is essential for reducing stress on discs and nerves, and alleviating chronic lower back stiffness.

4. Addressing Postural Imbalances: Sciatica can often be aggravated by poor posture or movement patterns. We assess your posture and provide practical advice on ergonomic adjustments for sitting, standing, and sleeping, along with guidance on proper body mechanics to prevent re-irritation.

5. Improving Circulation and Healing: Osteopathic techniques can enhance blood flow and lymphatic drainage to the affected nerve and surrounding tissues, aiding the body's natural healing processes and reducing inflammation.

6. Providing Rehabilitation Guidance: While our focus is hands-on, we may recommend specific stretches or exercises to improve flexibility, strengthen core muscles, and stabilize the spine. This forms a crucial part of your recovery process to prevent recurrence.

Whether you're a long-term resident seeking comprehensive relief from persistent sciatica or a visitor needing acute nerve pain relief to enjoy your Mallorca experience, our home visit osteopathy service across the island offers highly convenient and effective solutions. We bring expert, personalized care directly to you, helping you return to comfort, activity, and a life free from sciatic pain.