Sciatica is a common lower back disorder. It happens in more than 80 percent of Americans.
Harvard Health notes that it’s rampant at a macro scale: more than 40 percent of the global population has symptoms.
This disorder is characterized by dull or sharp aches, numbness, and weakness along the sciatic nerve that starts at the spinal cord and goes through the buttocks and hips, and extends down the legs.
Although it’s prevalent, this condition goes undiagnosed in many individuals and therefore, untreated. As a result, they risk the development of chronic backache which causes problems with flexibility, mobility, and functionality.
The 5 Tell-Tale Signs of Sciatica You Should Not Overlook
- Pain in the lower part of the back
Low back ache is one of the first indicators of sciatica. The pain starts in the lower back and tends to spread down the buttocks and legs.
This pain is usually notable in one leg, but it can sometimes happen in both. This pain will worsen standing, sitting, or bending.
The person may get relief when they lie down. But, for others, even lying down doesn’t help reduce the ache.
- Painful walking and standing up
Sciatica may cause discomfort when walking or trying to stand up.
When you move, the pain may decrease, but not entirely.
Some sufferers say that lying down is the only way to get relief; however, this isn’t the case with all sufferers.
- Numb and weak feet or legs
In addition to pain, sciatica is often characterized by numbness and weakness in one leg or one foot.
The feet may be numb or you may have tingling sensations.
This may also signal a pinched nerve that’s causing sciatica.
- A burning and tingling sensation
If you’re experiencing unusual or sudden burning or tingling sensations in one of your legs, it may be a potential symptom of sciatica.
A lot of people describe this feeling as a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain. It messes up your daily functioning since it’s so uncomfortable and painful.
- Your leg is giving out
When walking or standing, you feel like your leg is giving you out.
You may feel like you’re not balanced and you’re struggling with these seemingly basic movements that you do every day, several times.
Consult your physician and a chiropractor to try exercises that may restore the sciatic nerve. Severer cases may require medical treatment.
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