About Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through the hips and down each leg. It’s not a condition by itself but a symptom of underlying issues like a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression.

At MASSH MANAS, Noida, our orthopedic and neuro-spine teams provide advanced diagnostics and targeted treatments to relieve pain and restore mobility—often without major surgery.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Sciatica

• Shooting pain from the lower back to one leg
• Pain worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the leg or foot
• Muscle weakness in leg or foot
• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

Causes of Sciatica

1. Herniated or Slipped Disc

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the tougher outer layer. If this bulging disc presses against the sciatic nerve roots, it can trigger pain, numbness, or tingling radiating down the leg. This is the most common cause of sciatica, especially in younger adults.

2. Degenerative Disc Disease

As people age, their spinal discs naturally lose moisture and elasticity, leading to disc wear and tear. This degenerative process may cause disc space narrowing, inflammation, or even bone spur formation, all of which can irritate or compress the sciatic nerve.

3. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal—usually due to aging or arthritis. This reduced space can put pressure on the nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve, especially when standing or walking, causing pain, weakness, or burning sensations in the legs.

4. Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttock, lies very close to the sciatic nerve. If this muscle becomes tight, inflamed, or goes into spasm (often from overuse or improper posture), it can compress the sciatic nerve, mimicking sciatica symptoms. This condition is known as piriformis syndrome and is a non-spinal cause of sciatica.

5. Injury or Trauma

Any direct injury to the lower back, pelvis, or buttocks—such as from a fall, accident, or sports impact—can result in nerve compression or swelling that affects the sciatic nerve. Fractures, dislocations, or even post-surgical changes can also contribute.

6. Spondylolisthesis

In this condition, one vertebra slips forward over another, usually in the lower spine. This misalignment can narrow the nerve pathways and compress the nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve. It may occur due to age-related changes, trauma, or congenital spinal abnormalities.

Sciatica Risk Factors

• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity or sudden weight gain
• Poor posture and ergonomics
• Jobs involving heavy lifting or prolonged sitting
• Pregnancy
• Age above 40

Sciatica Complications if Ignored

• Chronic pain or disability
• Nerve damage
• Foot drop (inability to lift the front of the foot)
• Difficulty walking or performing daily tasks
• Risk of permanent damage in rare cases

Sciatica Diagnosis at MASSH MANAS

• Detailed physical and neurological exam
• MRI – for disc issues or nerve compression
• CT scan / X-rays – for structural spinal changes
• Nerve conduction studies if needed

Sciatica Treatment Options

Non-Surgical

• Pain medications – NSAIDs, muscle relaxants
• Physiotherapy – to improve posture, core strength, and mobility
• Epidural steroid injections – for nerve inflammation
• Heat/cold therapy, ergonomic advice, and rest

Minimally Invasive Surgical Options for Sciatica

• Microdiscectomy – to remove part of a herniated disc
• Endoscopic spine surgery
• 3D-guided decompression procedures for precision
• Surgery is considered only when non-surgical methods fail