Sciatica

Sciatica is a painful condition caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, which runs from the lower back down each leg. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in the spine, but it can also result from spinal stenosis, bone spurs, or muscle inflammation. Symptoms of sciatica include sharp, shooting pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness along the path of the nerve, typically affecting one side of the body. Pain can be severe and make sitting or standing for extended periods challenging. Treatment options for sciatica include rest, physical therapy, pain medications, anti-inflammatories, and in some cases, epidural steroid injections. Severe or persistent cases may require surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the nerve. Managing underlying causes and maintaining good posture and back health can help prevent recurrent sciatica.