What is sciatica ?

Sciatica is pain in the lumbar spine with compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. It is also often referred to as radiculitis or lower back pain. Sharp pain radiating to the leg – is a characteristic symptom of sciatica. Occasional sciatica symptoms may include foot drop or sphincter incontinence. The consequences of these health factors can be very serious, therefore, in the case of the latter two symptoms, you should immediately go to the nearest hospital.

How to recognize an attack of sciatica ?

Usually, symptoms appear after overstrain. As a consequence of actions such as: lifting something heavy, carrying heavy objects, repeatedly bending down and staying in a bent position for a long time, then an attack of sciatica may appear. Of course, these are just a few of the factors that can trigger an attack, and each case should be considered individually.

The course and symptoms of sciatica.

Initially, sciatica is very acute, causing, that the patient cannot bend down, straighten up or stand up on your own. After treatment, it is very important to change your daily habits. Without a doubt, not continuing to work on the posture or not exercising is the worst thing we can do. As a consequence of the above-mentioned neglect, the pain may become chronic, which can last for years.

We recommend that for sciatica :

  • a visit to physiotherapist / doctor
  • ćwiczenia i pozycje ułożeniowe odciążające
  • correcting posture defects
  • pro-health exercises – pilates, play, healthy spine

How to self-diagnose sciatica ?

In any case, we recommend contacting a doctor or physiotherapist. However, the first diagnosis can be made at home, for this we recommend the simple and quick Laségue test.

  1. Lie on your back
  2. Slowly raise your straightened leg
  3. When you feel pain in the lumbar spine at an elevation below 45 ° (pain radiating to the leg) you probably have sciatica.

If you have any questions or doubts, please contact a specialist.

Remember the Internet is not a medicine, therefore, no article should replace a visit to a professional.

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