Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the hips and legs. It is typically caused by irritation or compression of the nerve due to conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or muscle spasms.

Symptoms include sharp, shooting pain along the lower back, buttocks, or legs, numbness or tingling in the affected leg, and weakness in the leg. Pain may worsen with sitting, standing, or coughing.

If you experience severe pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty controlling your bowel or bladder, you should seek immediate medical attention. If pain persists for more than a week or interferes with your daily activities, it’s time to consult a specialist.

Treatments may include physical therapy, medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatories), chiropractic care, epidural steroid injections, and in severe cases, surgery. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.

Surgery is usually a last resort when other treatments don’t provide relief. Non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy and medications, are often effective in managing sciatica symptoms. Surgery is only considered if symptoms are severe or if there is a risk of permanent nerve damage.

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment. Acute sciatica often improves within a few weeks with conservative treatment, while chronic sciatica may take several months or longer.

Yes, physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for sciatica. It involves exercises designed to strengthen the muscles that support your spine, improve posture, and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Chiropractic care, specifically spinal adjustments, can help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, improve spinal alignment, and reduce pain. Many patients find chiropractic care beneficial as part of a holistic treatment plan.

Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or oral steroids, can help manage pain and inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe these medications depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Injections, such as epidural steroid injections, deliver medication directly to the area around the sciatic nerve to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from pain. They can be very effective for short-term pain relief.