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SCIATIC NERVE

Sciatica is a compression of sciatic nerve in the sacroiliac (sacrum and iliac area), causing radiating pain in the distribution of the dermatone of the sciatic nerve - lower back, posterior leg (back of the leg) and into heel of the foot. 

The problem is often diagnosed as a "radiculopathy", meaning that a disc has protruded from its normal position in the vertebral column and is putting pressure on the radicular nerve (nerve root), which connects with the sciatic nerve.

For some, the pain from sciatica can be severe and debilitating. For others, it might be infrequent and irritating, but has the potential to get worse. Usually, sciatica only affects one side of the lower body.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Pinched nerve
• Radiating pain
• Herniated disc

Symptoms:

• Shooting or burning pain extending from the hip and buttocks down the back of the leg and into heel of the foot
• Weakness in the affected limb
• Pain in the buttock
• Pain that is worse when sitting

Signs to look for:

• Limping in affected leg
• Difficulty standing up
• Pain down the back of the leg at rest or after standing for awhile
• X-rays will verify degenerative disc disease
• History of low back injury or trauma to sacroiliac

Possible Causes:

• Compressed nerve at L5-S1 on the spine
• Injury at L5-S1
• Degenerative disc disease caused by natural aging process or arthritis
• Nerve pinched by piriformis muscle

Goals:

• Restore posture and balance
• Reduce shock in heel strike
• Align hips, knees, ankles and feet
• Make standing and walking more comfortable

Solutions:

Arch Supports:

• Bio-Orthotics Winstep or Sundance exercising support with metatarsal lift

• Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support, such as the Bio-Orthotics Journey or Silhouette, for use when shoes cannot accommodate the Winstep or Sundance exercising support

• Extra depth shoe with firm heel counter and rocker sole

• MBT physiological footwear

• Wear heels and pumps only as long as absolutely necessary

• For exercising, wear shoes with titanium springs

• Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only

Activities:

• Medical treatment

• Regular stretching program before and after exercise

• Regular exercise program with attention to aerobic conditioning.

• Rotation of weight bearing (walking or jogging) with non-weight bearing exercising, such as walking and swimming

This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care.  The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below.  Copyright 2005 Carole Romig

Sources  Image:  R. Cailliet, MD, Foot and Ankle Pain    Text: R. Cailliet, MD, Foot and Ankle Pain, G. Copeland, DPM, The Foot Book, Spine-health.com