What does having sciatica feel like?

Sciatica typically feels like sharp, shooting pain radiating from the lower back into the hip and leg. It may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot. The pain often worsens with movement, prolonged sitting, or activities like coughing or sneezing.

How is sciatica diagnosed?

Sciatica can be diagnosed from your medical history and physical examination. This includes walking observation,straight leg raise assessment, strength and sensory testing. Imaging studies like X-rays, CT scan, MRI, and nerve conduction studies may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What triggers a sciatica flare-up?

Common triggers of painful sciatica flare-ups include prolonged sitting, poor sitting or standing posture, heavy lifting, and sudden movements. Stress may also be a contributing factor, as are lifestyle aspects such as being overweight or frequently wearing high heels. Therefore, it is crucial to make relevant lifestyle and posture adjustments that can help prevent future flare-ups.

How long does sciatica take to fully heal?

Most cases of sciatica improve within four to six weeks. However, more severe cases with intense symptoms and pain may take several weeks or months to fully heal. Ongoing care and management may be required for long-term relief, depending on the severity of the condition.

Why does sciatica get worse at night?

Sciatica pain often worsens at night due to increased pressure on the sciatic nerve and difficulty finding a comfortable position.

What is the best position to sleep if I suffer from sciatica pain?

For sciatica pain relief during sleep, adopting a foetal position with a pillow between your knees is recommended. This position will help “open up” the spinal canal. Alternatively, lying on your back with a pillow under your knees may also potentially reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.