What Causes Back Pain and Sciatica Pain?
Back pain and sciatica pain often stem from issues with the spine, muscles, or nerves. Common causes of back pain include muscle or ligament strains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis. These conditions can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, leading to discomfort, stiffness, or sharp pain. A herniated disc occurs when the cushioning discs between vertebrae slip or rupture, often causing pressure on nearby nerves. Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and discomfort. Inflammation of the joints in the spine, like in osteoarthritis, can also lead to chronic back pain due to wear and tear.
Sciatica pain, which is a type of back pain, is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg, and when it becomes compressed or irritated usually due to a herniated disc or narrowing of the spine it causes pain that radiates along the nerve's path. In addition to spinal issues, other factors such as poor posture, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, improper lifting, or even stress can exacerbate back pain and sciatica. Identifying the root cause of back pain and sciatica is crucial for effective treatment and managing symptoms.
