Many of us have felt pain coming from the low back radiating into the butt or down the legs (Sciatica).  It makes sense that something is compressing or pinching the sciatic nerve, but what?  As the sciatic nerve exits the spine it passes through small openings called foramina.  The two most common causes which make the foramina smaller and irritate that nerve: the disc is herniated (bulging) or the facet (two projections of the upper vertebra articulating with two projections from the lower vertebra) is touching the nerve.

Disc signs: Pain when rising from a seated position which lets up after 5 – 20 seconds.  They have pain with coughing, sneezing or any action that increases pressure in your abs (like lying on back and lifting both legs at once 6” off ground).  Often disc patients have difficulty leaning forward and will come in to our office wearing slip on shoes rather then suffer trying to tie their shoe laces.

Facet Syndrome signs: Standing for a prolonged period results in sciatica.  It feels good to sit and lean forward.  Facet syndrome typically results when your core muscles (abs) do not engage as often as they should and you get an extra big curve in your low back (sway back).

Treatment for a disc bulge vs. facet syndrome needs to be specific to work effectively. While one treatment or exercise will help a disc bulge, it could hurt a facet syndrome patient, and vice versa.  If your doctor is familiar with disc vs. facet treatment, speak with them about proper treatment and read the future articles by Dr. Shane Gold.

If you have sciatica and live or work in the Denver Metro Area and are in need of care at Gold Chiropractic visit our website to get more information: www.centennialchiropractor.com or call 303-798-2000 to schedule a free consultation.