A Pain In The Butt, Literally - A Series On Sciatica

The refrain is familiar, so much so that the question has become standard in the orthopedic health care setting. "Doctor, the pain travels down my leg when I......sit, stand, drive, golf.....what can you do?"

We've all heard the term Sciatica in some form or fashion. Whether it's an important player on your favorite team, your parent, you or somewhere in the news, the word is increasing in usage. But what exactly is sciatica? How does it happen? Why does it happen? Most importantly, what can be done about it?

Those answers, and trust me, there are answers, can be found in a variety of places including the internet, anecdotally or through medical research. But really, the best wealth of information will come from your doctor, a specifically a specialist in spinal or orthopedic disorders.

Sciatica, as people who have suffered from this condition, is an irritation of the sciatic nerve itself or the nerve roots that eventually join together to form the nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve that supplies sensation and motor function to the posterior gluteal region, back of the thigh, back of the calf muscle and into the foot. Irritation anywhere along the pathway can cause pain up and down the leg, leading to loss of sensation or even the ability to move the leg. It is important to note that sciatica is not a diagnosis, but rather a specific symptom that leads to a diagnosis. Fortunately, sciatica tends to occur on only one side of the body.

If you are experiencing any altered sensation, tingling, numbness, pain or pins and needles in either of your legs, do not hesitate to call Rehabilitation & Spinal Care of Rockford and schedule an appointment to be seen by Dr. Mike Donohue.