As an executive mum juggling a demanding career and family life, dealing with back and nerve pain can feel like an unwelcome distraction from your busy schedule. Sciatica - a condition characterised by pain radiating along the sciatic nerve from your lower back to your leg, can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. While sciatica is often manageable with self-care and minor adjustments, there are times when it can signal a more serious underlying issue that requires immediate attention. In this blog, we’ll explore how to recognise when sciatica might be serious and what steps you should take.
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and down each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. Common causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to sharp, shooting pain, often accompanied by numbness or tingling in the leg.
While sciatica is generally not life-threatening, certain symptoms indicate that your condition may be more serious and require medical intervention:
Severe unrelenting Pain: If your sciatic pain is so intense that it significantly disrupts your ability to work, sleep, or perform daily tasks, it’s time to seek professional advice. Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter remedies may indicate a more severe issue, such as a herniated disc or nerve damage.
Weakness in the Leg or Foot: Noticeable weakness in your leg, foot, or toes is a red flag. Difficulty lifting your foot (foot drop) or a general inability to bear weight on the affected leg could suggest nerve compression or damage that requires immediate attention.
Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: This is a rare but serious symptom that could indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency. If you experience loss of bladder or bowel control, seek urgent medical care.
Worsening Numbness or Tingling: While mild numbness or tingling is common with sciatica, worsening or spreading numbness, especially in the inner thighs or pelvic area, should not be ignored.
HERE is a checklist on 'Quick Office Stretches For Nerve Pain Relief'. It is a comprehensive resource provides simple yet effective stretches that you can perform right at your desk to alleviate pain, tingling, and numbness associated with nerve issues.
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