SCIATICA AND SCIATIC NERVE PAIN
Description of Sciatica
Sciatica is a general term that describes the collection of symptoms that can arise when the sciatic nerve - which runs from the base of the spine and down through both legs - is compressed. Compression of the sciatic nerve can lead to pain that originates in the lower back and travels through the buttocks, legs, and feet. In addition to pain, other symptoms like cramping, muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness may follow the course of the sciatic nerve. More often than not, sciatica occurs on one side of the body, but it can affect both sides
The largest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve is about an inch wide and is comprised of multiple spinal nerves. Sciatica arises when this nerve is being pinched - either by a herniated disc or a bone spur - in the area where the nerve exits the spinal column in the lower back.
Most treatments for sciatica are nonsurgical and may include rest, special exercises, physical therapy, and medication. Typically, however, these conservative treatments only provide temporary relief, leading some patients to explore surgery as an option. Today, sciatica can be healed through safe and effective endoscopic procedures, making traditional, massively invasive, open back surgeries unnecessary.
