Sciatica

Sciatica is a pain in the leg due to irritation of the sciatic nerve. The pain generally goes from the front of the thigh to the back of the calf, and may also extend upward to the hip and down to the foot. In addition to pain, there may be numbness and difficulty moving or controlling the leg.

Causes of sciatica

The most common cause of sciatic is a "slipped disc" (a herniated disc in the spine). Other conditions that can cause or aggravate sciatica include roughening and enlarging of the vertebrae, tension in the piriformis muscle, infections, and tumors.

Treatment

Most cases of sciatica can be effectively treated by physical therapy and appropriate changes in environment (for example cushioning, or chair and desk height). Chiropractic manipulation often helps. In approximately 10-20% of cases, surgery is required to correct the problem.

Related Topics

• Tension myositis syndrome