It is a pathology that appears when the sciatic nerve, which originates in the lower spine (L4, L5, S1 and S2), is lesioned at some point along its course.
The most frequent cause is the herniation of an intervertebral disc.
It manifests with low back pain that extends to the buttock, back of the leg and dorsum of the foot.
It is usually described as an intense stabbing pain that is aggravated by walking, sitting, coughing, defecation and compression of the point of the spine where the lesion has occurred.
The diagnosis is made through clinical history and complete physical examination. It is confirmed by imaging tests that reveal herniation of the intervertebral disc.
The priority of treatment is to relieve pain with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, and absolute rest is not necessary. Physiotherapy sessions may be beneficial. In some cases, surgical treatment will be necessary.
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