Sciatica
Sciatica is a radiating nerve pain in the buttock and/or leg. The name comes from the sciatic nerve (nervus ischiadicus), which forms from the lower back and runs through the buttock along the back of the leg to the calf and foot. If too much pressure is applied to the nerve anywhere along this path, it can become irritated or inflamed. One of the most well-known causes of sciatica is a herniated disc, but the nerve can also become pinched in other locations, such as in the buttock. Radiating pain in the leg can also be caused by muscle complaints or pain in the sacroiliac (SI) joints.
Herniated disc
A herniated disc (hernia nucleus pulposus, HNP) is a bulge in an intervertebral disc that can press on a nerve leaving the spinal cord towards the leg. An inflammatory reaction can also occur, causing the same symptoms. This can happen in the lower back or the neck, leading to pain in the leg or arm — sometimes accompanied by numbness, tingling or muscle weakness.
Can we help?
In the case of sciatica or a herniated disc, we can reduce the pressure on the nerve to relieve the complaints. Targeted adjustments and exercises can also help bring the inflammatory response under control.