Sciatica
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg.
Overview
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, usually by a herniated disk or bone spur in the spine. It typically affects only one side of the body and can range from a mild ache to severe, shooting pain.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include lower back pain that extends through the hip and buttock down the leg, numbness or weakness in the affected leg or foot, and a tingling or pins-and-needles sensation in the leg.
Treatment
Treatment often begins with conservative methods like physical therapy and pain medication. In severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, surgery may be considered to relieve nerve compression.