Sciatica is a condition that causes pain and stiffness along the sciatic nerve, which is a large nerve with many branches running down your lower back and into the hips, thighs, and feet. The sciatic nerve can result in an intense burning pain when pressure is placed on it. This condition usually occurs when there is an inflammation of one or more of the sciatic nerve’s numerous smaller branches. 

Continue reading to learn more about sciatica, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. 

1. Causes of Sciatica
The most common cause of sciatica nerve pain is a herniated disc. Discs in your back are cushions that sit between vertebrae and provide stability for the spine. Your discs can become loose, and over time they can push out against the sciatic nerve, causing pain in the lower-back muscles and tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs. There are many other causes of sciatica, including ruptured or bulging discs, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal column), arthritis, and spinal tumors. 

2. Risk factors for sciatica
Some of the risk factors that may lead to sciatica include: 

• A physically demanding job
• Obesity
• Age 
• Bad posture
• Smoking
• Mental health problems
• Diabetes
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Vitamin B 12 deficiency

3. Symptoms of sciatica
The most common symptom of sciatica is pain, which can vary in intensity and location, radiating to the buttock and inner thigh. Other common symptoms include tingling, numbness, weakness, muscle spasms, and a feeling of tightness. If you are experiencing these symptoms it is important to see your doctor or chiropractor as soon as possible. They will be able to quickly diagnose your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment plan.

4. Treatment for sciatica
Sciatica usually goes away on its own, but in some cases, it can be a long-term condition. Sometimes the only treatment needed is bed rest. However, if you want to reduce pain and swelling, your healthcare provider might recommend taking an anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. In addition to these remedies, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications. If sciatica lasts for more than two weeks, it’s likely that surgery will be necessary to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

5. Progression of Sciatica
Sciatica is considered a progressive condition, meaning that it can get worse over time. This is because the symptoms of sciatica become more intense as the inflammation progresses. Sciatica usually becomes worse in two ways: either by increasing the pressure on your sciatic nerve or by decreasing its blood supply. There are a few different types of sciatica, including acute and chronic forms. Acute sciatica is typically caused when you have a sudden strain to your lower back that sends pain down your leg due to an injury. This could be from lifting something heavy, getting hit by a car, falling while running, or even getting stuck in your seatbelt while driving. Chronic sciatica is typically caused when there is an issue with your spine, such as disk protrusion, or spinal stenosis, which then causes pressure on the sciatic nerve.

The bottom line
Unfortunately, sciatica is still a very common condition that affects many people around the world. While it can be a frustrating one, it doesn't have to negatively impact your life. With the right treatment, you can get back to activities you enjoy and feel confident in your body again. 

If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, don’t hesitate and visit your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of sciatica can make a huge difference in both your physical and mental health and is essential to prevent severe consequences and improve your quality of life significantly.