The sciatic nerve is the large nerve that starts in the lower back region and runs down the hind portion of the legs.
This nerve is responsible for movement of muscles in the back of the lower legs and the knees.
It is responsible for the sensation in the thighs, legs and soles of the feet.
The term sciatica is used to define a problem in the sciatic nerve.
There are various types of back pain and sciatica is one of them.
Most of the times people do not realize they are suffering from sciatica, simply because the pain is present nowhere near the lower back region.
They usually misjudge it to be ordinary leg pain.
However, symptoms of sciatica would include weakness, numbness or tingling of the feet.
The pain may start on one side of the lower back and proceed to the thighs, calf or to the toes of the feet.
At times, the pain may start and gradually increase in intensity or it may just go away on its own.
Very often, it needs medication or an exercise regime and in extreme cases, surgery.
Although the doctors may at times fail to find the causes for the problem, sciatica can be caused due to a ruptured vertebral disc, pelvic fracture or spinal stenosis.
The symptoms for sciatica can be varied.
A tingling feeling in the feet and toes or a burning sensation on the soles of the feet or numbness is the first sign that something is wrong.
Persons suffering from sciatica may have trouble walking or they may be unable to bend the knees or move the feet.
There may also be pain in the lower back and legs.
Doctors may run blood tests, take MRI's and X-rays to diagnose the problem.
At times, nerve conduction tests may be taken to determine the extent of damage to the nerve.
The course of treatment depends on the severity of the ailment and the causative factors.
If the problem is minor and there is no degeneration or damage to the nerve, the treatment may involve medication or simple exercises.
However if sciatica is caused due to a herniated disc, the doctor may decide to perform surgery to remove the part that is exerting pressure on the nerve.
This would be done in patients suffering from a severe case of sciatica.
Other forms for treatment of sciatica could be to administer injections to reduce inflammation in the nerve area or the use of painkillers to provide relief to the patient.
Physiotherapy may be recommended to the patient in order to rebuild and strengthen the muscles.