9 Root Causes of Sciatica (Home Physical Therapy NYC)

9 Root Causes of Sciatica (Home Physical Therapy NYC)

​Sciatica is a very common orthopedic issue and condition that is caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down to the legs, and when it is compressed, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. There are several common causes of sciatica, and in this blog article, we will explore each of them in detail.

1.) Herniated Disc ("Slipped Disc" or "Pinched Nerve")
One of the most common causes of sciatica is a herniated disc. A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner part of a spinal disc bulges out and puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back and down the leg.

2.) Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause sciatica-like symptoms, including pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs.

3.) Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Degenerative disc disease is a condition that occurs when the spinal discs between the vertebrae begin to break down over time. This can cause the discs to lose their cushioning ability, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve and causing pain and discomfort.

4.) Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle in the buttocks compresses the sciatic nerve. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the buttocks and down the leg.

5.) Sacroiliac Joint (SI) or Pelvis
The sacroiliac SI joint is very often over-looked and under-diagnosed as a root cause of sciatica pain, numbness, and tingling. The left or right SI joint can become slightly shifted up or down or slightly rotated forward or backward. 

6.) Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one vertebra slips forward over another. This can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause pain and discomfort in the lower back and legs.

7.) Trauma
Trauma to the lower back or legs, such as a fall or car accident, can cause damage to the sciatic nerve and lead to sciatica.

8.) Pregnancy
Pregnancy can also cause sciatica, as the weight of the baby can put pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back and legs.

9.) Obesity
Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and discomfort in the lower back and legs. In conclusion, sciatica can be caused by a variety of factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, piriformis syndrome, spondylolisthesis, trauma, pregnancy, and obesity.

If you are experiencing symptoms of sciatica, then feel free to contact us to inquire and learn more about our sciatica specialists who are expert doctors of physical therapy, to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Inquire about Sciatica Relief

Can Stretching Help Me?

Call 24/7: (646)-781-8884