Sciatica

Sciatica causes pain in the lower back and legs due to compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body, extending from the lower back to the legs and feet. Sciatica can cause a variety of symptoms, including sharp pain, muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness. .


Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of sciatica is made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. During the physical exam, the doctor will evaluate range of motion, strength, and sensation in the legs. They may also perform specific tests, such as the Lasegue sign, to assess the presence of sciatica. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT), may be used to visualize the extent of the compression of the sciatic nerve.


Phenotypes:

There are several phenotypes or patterns of sciatica. The most common ones are herniated disc sciatica, spinal stenosis sciatica, and piriformis syndrome sciatica.

Herniated disc sciatica: This phenotype is characterized by compression of the sciatic nerve due to the protrusion or herniation of the intervertebral disc.

Spinal stenosis sciatica: This phenotype is characterized by compression of the sciatic nerve due to a narrowing of the vertebral canal in the lumbar spine.

Piriformis syndrome sciatica: This phenotype is characterized by compression of the sciatic nerve due to tension or contraction of the piriformis muscle in the gluteal region.