Sciatica is a term used to describe a burning or aching pain that travels down the sciatic nerve. This nerve begins in the lumbar spine and extends into the hips, buttocks and down each leg. A classic sign of Sciatica is radiating pain along the hip and into the leg. Sciatica itself is not a diagnosis but rather a symptom of an underlying spinal condition.
Generally, Sciatica will only affect only one side of your body. Standing, sitting, coughing, sneezing or sudden movements may aggravate this condition and cause a sharp pain along the Sciatic nerve.
The underlying causes of Sciatica can include:
- Herniated spinal disc
- Spondylosis
- Bone spurs in the spine
- Spinal stenosis
- Spinal nerve compression
If you are experiencing Sciatica pain it is important to seek medical attention to address the underlying lumbar spine condition causing this pain.