Arthritis and Sciatica

Arthritis and sciatica are two different ailments that have their own individual set of symptoms and sings. However, recent studies have shown a definite link between the two. In fact, it has even been suggested that either ailment may trigger the other in certain circumstances. Here's more.

The key to understanding the connection between the two is to first learn more about the ailments in their individual form. Sciatica is a condition that is triggered by the irritation of one of the sciatic nerves. The most common symptom of the disease is a pain that circulates in the hip or the buttock area. It may even extend down the back of the leg to the foot.

Arthritis is a condition that is caused by damage to the joints of the body. Over a 100 different variations of the ailment have been identified and the most of these is osteoarthritis. The primary symptom of the condition is a constant pain that is often localized to the affected joint.

Most experts believe that there is a definite link between osteoarthritis and sciatica. Osteoarthritis typically develops at a later age and is usually asymptomatic. However, sciatica may develop alongside the condition and result in pain.

Sciatica is often caused by age related conditions such as disc herniation, piriformis syndrome, spondylolisthesis and tumor. In case of arthritis, sciatica is triggered by the formation of osteoarthritis bone spurs in the vertebrae which cause discomfort by pressing on the nerve roots.

The bone spurs can cause foraminal stenosis when they grow between the foramen openings between the vertebrae. They may further cause pinched nerve condition in the area where the nerve roots exit the spinal column. This in turn exerts pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain and discomfort and the development of sciatica.

However, one should understand that pain from joint problems or arthritis is more common then pain that's triggered by sciatica. At times, arthritic pain may be misdiagnosed as sciatic pain as well.

In truth, pain symptoms for the two diseases are quite distinct from each other. Arthritic pain for example is often dull and achy with varying intensity. It may also move around your body. Sciatica pain on the other hand, is more intense and can radiate from the lower back to the buttocks and leg region.

Sciatica caused by osteoarthritis may be treated effectively with home remedies such as heat or ice packs. Regular activity followed by bouts of relaxation can also help you overcome the problem. Many people also use chiropractic measures or pain management drugs to deal with the condition. Surgery may also be recommended by the physician in case of severe sciatic pain triggered by arthritis.

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