Sciatica is a set of symptoms that are felt along the sciatic nerve which begins in one’s spinal cord and descends down to the buttocks, hip area and the back of the legs. Sciatica pain is characteristically felt from the low back to behind the thigh and burning down below the knee. Causes of sciatica can include herniated disks, lumbar spinal stenosis, spinal tumors, trauma and others. Although sometimes the causes of sciatica cannot be detected by a doctor, it can still be treatable. If pain persists for a period longer than four weeks, is severe, or becomes steadily worse, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Treatments for sciatica depend on the initial cause and the severity of symptoms.
The risk of obtaining sciatica symptoms are increased through long periods of sitting, age, occupation, and diabetes. For treatment of sciatica, self care measures tend to be greatly beneficial. Self care measures include hot or cold packs, stretching, regular exercise, and/or the use of over the counter medications. Other treatment options recommended by your physician can include physical therapy, or prescription drugs. In extreme cases where sciatica does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery, or epidural steroid injections may be greatly considered. Although significantly uncomfortable or painful, sciatica tends to last no more than four to eight weeks
