Sciatica is a type of pain that affects the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and into each leg. Sciatica pain typically occurs on one side of the body and can range from mild to severe.
Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disk, which can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg. Other causes of sciatica may include spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or piriformis syndrome.
Symptoms of sciatica can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include pain in the lower back, buttocks, or leg, numbness or tingling in the affected area, weakness in the leg, or difficulty walking or standing.
Treatment for sciatica may include rest, pain medication, physical therapy, or surgery in severe cases. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility and function. In many cases, sciatica pain can be managed with non-surgical treatments and will improve over time with proper care and management.