What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition in which the sciatic nerve, which is located from the lower back to the feet, is irritated or compressed.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is caused by something pressing or rubbing on the sciatic nerve. This may be due to:
- A slipped disc. This is the most common cause and it involves a soft cushion of tissue between the bones in the spine pushing out.
- Spinal stenosis. This involves the part of the spine where nerves pass through becoming narrow.
- Spondylolisthesis. This involves one of the bones in the spine slipping out of place.
- A back injury.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
Sciatica can cause a person’s bottom, back of the legs, feet and toes to feel painful, tingly, numb or weak. It can also cause back pain.
The symptoms may be worse when moving, sneezing or coughing but usually get better in 4-6 weeks.
