The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body which is located at the base of the spinal cord and radiates all the way down at the rear of the legs up to the toes. Sometimes, a vertebral disc can swell out of its position and press on the sciatic nerve. This cause minor or significant throbbing of the back and leg.
The sciatic nerve provides sensation, strength and reflexes of the leg. It attaches the spinal cord with the outside of the thigh, hamstring muscles in the back of the thighs and muscles in the lower leg and feet.
Causes of a pinched sciatic nerve
- A bulging disc or herniatic disc in the spine that is pressing on the nerve roots.
- Spinal stenosis which is the narrowing of the spinal canal
- Small, bony growths on the joints or bone spurs due to arthritis or nerve root compression
- Pinched nerve due to injury
Pain at the back or buttock and spreads down the leg and into the foot.
Symptoms
- Pain at the back or buttock and spreads down the leg and into the foot
- Weakness, tingling and numbness in the leg.
- Sitting and standing for long periods of time
- Performing movements that flexes the spine such as knee-to-chest exercises.
- Walking, lying down and performing movements that extends the spine.
- Pain when sleeping
Treatment
- Rest on a firm mattress or on the floor when the pain is severe. Stay in bed for at least 3 days and get up only when needed.
- Take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin to lessen discomfort.
- When lying down, place one pillow under the knee to relieve pressure placed on the sciatic nerve.
- Consume foods rich in fiber such as fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation. Avoid straining during bowel movements to prevent irritation on the sciatic nerve.
- Alternate lying down and taking short walks and gradually increase walking distance if there is no pain.
- Apply heat such as heating pad set on low or medium for at least 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours to lessen the pain and inflammation.
- Apply an ice pack on the affected area for at least 10-15 minutes every 2-3 hours. Alternately apply heat and ice on the affected area.
More Information
The details posted on this page on a pinched sciatic nerve is for learning purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage nerve injuries including a pinched sciatic nerve, enroll in a first aid course with one of our training providers.
FACT CHECK
https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/what-is-sciatica#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/back-pain/sciatic-stretches
https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/what-you-need-know-about-sciatica