Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica can be caused by various factors that result in irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. Some common causes include:
Herniated or Bulging Disc: The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated or bulging disc in the spine. When the soft inner material of a disc protrudes outward and presses on the nearby nerve roots, it can cause pain and other symptoms associated with sciatica.
Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves, including the sciatic nerve. This can be caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Over time, the discs between the vertebrae can degenerate, lose their cushioning ability, and shrink. This can lead to nerve compression and subsequent sciatica symptoms.
Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it. It can cause narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can sometimes irritate or compress the sciatic nerve as it passes beneath or through the muscle. This can lead to symptoms similar to those of true sciatica.
Trauma or Injury: Injuries to the lower back or buttocks, such as a fall or car accident, can cause damage to the spine or surrounding tissues, leading to sciatica symptoms.
Tumors: Although rare, tumors in the spine or pelvis can compress the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica symptoms.
Pregnancy: The additional weight and changes in posture during pregnancy can sometimes put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica symptoms in some women.