What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a term used to describe leg symptoms that are caused by a pinching or irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and is formed by nerve roots that come together from the lower back. The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back and its branches travel down the entire leg and into the foot. Sciatica Symptoms The symptoms associated with sciatica can include lower back pain that extends to the hip, thigh, lower leg and foot. The leg symptoms often include achiness, numbing, tingling, burning and/or shooting pains. Sciatic leg pain can be present in some cases without associated lower back pain. The pain associated with sciatica can be anywhere from a mild irritation to debilitating pain that significantly affects one’s sleep and many normal daily activities. Sciatica Causes Sciatica can be caused by numerous conditions in the lower back and hip regions. Four of the most common causes of sciatica are the following. Degenerativ...