Sciatica
Sciatica is the term used to describe pain along the course of the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It originates from the lower part of the spinal cord. A sciatic nerve passes through each buttock and down each leg. Sciatica develops as the result of compression on the sciatic nerve. This may be caused by a disc herniation, bone spur or spinal stenosis.
This condition is characterised by pain of the buttock, back of the leg or foot. There may also be numbness or tingling in the affected leg. It may present with or without low back pain.
Sciatica pain can be very severe. However, it usually resolves well with only conservative management within a couple of weeks.
Top tips to prevent sciatica:
- Stay active
- Mind your posture
- Avoid sitting for long periods
- Lift safely
For more information on sciatica, click here to check out our blog post