Sciatic Pain

Sciatic Pain

Sciatic pain does not necessarily come from the compression of the sciatic nerve from the spine.

Muscles, ligaments and tendons directly affect the sciatic nerve as it leaves the spinal cord and travels down the legs, intertwining between muscles. When muscles become shortened, trapping toxic waste and preventing vital oxygen and nutrients from entering, the sciatic nerve may become entrapped (“squeezed”)

Referral pain will occur and may be experienced from the low back to the toes. “Shooting or, radiating” pain is felt in one or both legs, as well as pain and discomfort during standing, sitting, sleeping and performing daily tasks.

Common muscular involvement may include:

  • PIRIFORMIS
  • GLUTEUS MEDIUS
  • QUADRATIS LUMBORUM
  • MULTIFIDI
  • GLUTEUS MAXIMUS
  • GLUTEUS MINIMUS
  • DEEP HIP ROTATORES
  • HAMSTRINGS

Frequent or prolonged sitting or standing can activate trigger points and hypertonicity in these muscles. Occupations such as drivers ( trucks, taxi, police, etc. ), computer programmers, desk jobs, business travelers, and bank tellers may suffer from this condition.

Pregnancy, immobility, poor posture, biomechanical dysfunctions and pelvic deviations may also contribute.