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Sciatica Pain Relief

Walk & Run Again

Dr. Robert J. Zapf, M.S., D.C.

Your Sciatica Care Specialist in Fairfax, VA

Image by NEOM

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. This pain is usually caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, leading to symptoms such as sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg.

Understanding the root cause of your sciatica is essential for effective treatment. Our non-surgical, drug-free approach targets the source of your pain, helping you achieve long-term relief.

Diagram Comparing Sciatica Due to Herniated Disc and Piriformis Syndrome
Young Man Performing Sciatic Nerve Stretches while Sitting on a Lake Side Dock

Major Causes of Sciatica 

1 

Herniated Disc

  • Mechanism: A herniated or bulging disc in the lower spine can press against the sciatic nerve, triggering inflammation and pain. This occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through the tough outer layer, irritating nearby nerves.

  • Symptoms: Sudden, sharp pain in the lower back and leg, often worsened by movement or sitting.

2

Piriformis Syndrome

  • Mechanism: The piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttocks, can become tight or spasmodic, compressing the sciatic nerve as it passes underneath (or through) the muscle. This compression mimics traditional sciatica symptoms.

  • Symptoms: Pain in the buttocks that radiates down the leg, often worsened by prolonged sitting or climbing stairs.

3

Sacroiliac Joint (SI) Dysfunction

  • Mechanism: The sacroiliac joint, which connects the pelvis to the spine, can become inflamed or misaligned, leading to irritation of nearby nerves, including the sciatic nerve.

  • Symptoms: Pain in the lower back, buttocks, and upper legs, often worsened by standing or weight-bearing activities.

4

Spinal Stenosis

  • Mechanism: A narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to aging, can compress the sciatic nerve roots, leading to pain and nerve dysfunction.

  • Symptoms: Pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, often relieved by bending forward or sitting.

5

Degenerative Joint Disease

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  • Mechanism: As spinal discs wear down over time, they can lose cushioning and cause nerve irritation, sometimes leading to sciatic pain. Bone spurs may also develop, further compressing the nerve.

  • Symptoms: Chronic lower back pain with occasional sharp, shooting pain down the leg.

6

Spondylolisthesis

  • Mechanism: When a vertebra slips out of place, it can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to irritation and pain. This is often due to aging, injury, or congenital conditions.

  • Symptoms: Lower back pain, leg pain, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods.

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