SCIATICA
CAUSES |
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Sciatica is a form of peripheral
neuropathy. It occurs when there is damage to the sciatic nerve,
located in the back of the leg. This nerve controls the muscles of
the back of the knee and lower leg and provides sensation to the
back of the thigh, part of the lower leg and the sole of the foot.
Incomplete damage to the sciatic nerve may appear identical to
damage to one of the branches of the sciatic nerve (tibial nerve
dysfunction or common peroneal nerve dysfunction).
A problem in a single nerve group, such
as the sciatic nerve, is classified as a mononeuropathy. The usual
causes are direct trauma (often due to an injection into the
buttocks), prolonged external pressure on the nerve, and pressure on
the nerve from nearby body structures. It can also be caused by
entrapment -- pressure on the nerve where it passes through a narrow
structure. The damage slows or prevents conduction of impulses
through the nerve.
The sciatic nerve is commonly injured
by fractures of the pelvis, gunshot wounds, or other trauma to the
buttocks or thigh. Prolonged sitting or lying with pressure on the
buttocks may also injure it. Systemic diseases, such as diabetes,
can typically damage many different nerves, including the sciatic
nerve. The sciatic nerve may also be harmed by pressure from masses
such as a tumor or abscess, or by bleeding in the pelvis.
In many cases, no cause can be
identified.
Note: A ruptured lumbar disk in the
spine may cause symptoms that simulate the symptoms of sciatic nerve
dysfunction. |
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