Sciatica and the lumbar disk syndrome: a historic perspective

Abstract

The dynamics of the human spine mark the lumbar disk syndrome and accompanying sciatic complaints as long-standing afflictions of our species. Although Greco-Roman erudition suitably described the ailment, uneven diagnostic and therapeutic acumen confused inquiry for many centuries. Only with the 19th Century advent of improved clinical facilities, pathologic correlation, and active surgical exploration did real insight commence. Not, however, until the 1934 landmark publication of Mixter and Barr was the herniated lumbar disk indicated as a major cause of sciatica. Despite such advances, numerous unresolved issues still surround this disease.