What is Sciatica?

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of each leg. It’s not a condition itself, but a symptom of an underlying problem affecting the lower spine or the sciatic nerve.

The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the human body, formed by nerve roots branching out from the lower spine (L4 to S3). When these nerve roots are irritated or compressed, they can produce pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that travels down the leg — this is what we call sciatica.

Common Causes of Sciatica:

The most frequent cause of sciatica is a herniated (slipped) lumbar disc, where part of the disc bulges out and presses on a nerve root. Other possible causes include:

• Degenerative disc disease or spinal arthritis, which can narrow the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)

• Bone spurs (bony overgrowths) from aging

• Spondylolisthesis, when one vertebra slips forward over another

• Muscle-related compression, such as from the piriformis muscle in rare cases

*Risk factors include prolonged sitting, obesity, repetitive improper bending or lifting, and age-related spinal changes due to poor posture.*

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Sciatica typically affects one side of the body. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, burning, or shooting pain radiating from the lower back to the buttock and down the leg

• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations

• Numbness or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on symptoms and a physical exam. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans are recommended only when symptoms persist or when serious underlying causes are suspected.

Treatment and Management

Most cases of sciatica resolve within a few weeks with conservative management. Evidence-based treatment includes:

• Chiropractic care and targeted exercises to strengthen the spine and improve mobility

• Maintaining activity — avoiding prolonged bed rest or sitting

• Heat or cold therapy for pain relief

• Low inflammatory diet —such as avoiding highly processed foods and refined sugars

For some extreme or neglected cases, only options that may remain include epidural steroid injections or surgery if there is significant nerve compression or neurological deficit.

Summary: 

Sciatica is a common but treatable and oftentimes a preventable condition caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Early risk screenings and diagnosis, regular movement, and evidence-based chiropractic care are key to relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence!