Sciatica

Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. The pain usually affects the buttock and thigh, sometimes extending down the leg to the foot. In severe cases, the pain may be accompanied by numbness and/or weakness in the affected area. The most common cause is a prolapsed intervertebral disc pressing on the nerve root (see disc prolapse). Other causes include a muscle spasm, sitting awkwardly for long periods, or, less commonly, pressure on the nerve from a tumour. Sometimes the cause is unknown. Treatment of sciatica is with analgesic drugs. If the pain is severe, a short period of bed rest may be helpful, although prolonged rest may cause the condition to worsen. Physiotherapy, osteopathy, or chiropractic may help in some cases. It is important to maintain a healthy posture and weight.