Sciatica is where the sciatic nerve gets compressed and irritated. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back to the feet.

• Most cases get better with time, however, severe cases may need surgery. 

• There are 2 types of sciatica, true sciatica (any condition or injury that directly affects the nerve) and sciatica-like conditions  (related to other nerves that bundle to form the sciatic nerve)

• It is a very common condition, about 40% of the U.S. experience a form of sciatica during their lifetime.

Sciatica occurs when something presses the sciatic nerve. It can also happen because of other conditions that affect any of the 5 spinal nerves to form the sciatic nerve. Conditions include :

• Herniated disc 

• Degenerative disc disease

• Spinal stenosis

• Foraminal stenosis

• Osteoarthritis

• Injuries 

• Pregnancy 

• Tumours, cysts or other growths