What Is Sciatica and Why Does It Happen?

Quick Answer: What Is Sciatica?

• Sciatica is pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve
• It usually starts in the lower back or buttock
• Pain travels down one leg
• Most cases improve with non-surgical treatment

What Is the Sciatic Nerve?

The sciatic nerve is:

• The largest nerve in the body
• Formed by nerves from the lower spine
• Responsible for sensation and movement of the leg

When this nerve is compressed or irritated, sciatica occurs.

Why Does Sciatica Happen?

1. Slipped (Herniated) Disc

• Most common cause
• Disc presses on the sciatic nerve
• Causes leg pain and numbness

Learn more about slipped disc treatment.

2. Spine Degeneration

• Age-related disc and joint changes
• Narrowing of nerve passages

3. Muscle Spasm or Tight Muscles

• Piriformis muscle irritation
• Can press on the sciatic nerve

4. Spinal Canal Narrowing

• Reduced space for nerves
• More common in older adults

This condition is also known as spinal stenosis.

Common Symptoms of Sciatica

• Pain radiating from back to leg
• Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
• Numbness in leg or foot
• Weakness in leg muscles

Sciatica usually affects one side of the body.

When Should You Worry About Sciatica?

Seek medical attention if:

• Pain is severe or worsening
• There is progressive weakness
• Walking becomes difficult
• Bladder or bowel control is affected

How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?

Diagnosis includes:

• Medical history
• Physical examination
• MRI scan (only if symptoms persist or worsen)

Most patients do not need immediate imaging. Consult Dr. Vishal Kundnani for expert spine diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Sciatica

Conservative Treatment (First Line)

• Pain-relief medications
• Physiotherapy
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Activity modification

Many patients find relief with conservative sciatica treatment.

Advanced Non-Surgical Treatment

• Targeted nerve injections
• Guided spine rehabilitation

Surgical Treatment (Rare Cases)

Surgery is considered only if:

• Pain persists despite treatment
• Significant weakness develops
• Daily life is severely affected

When surgery is needed, minimally invasive spine surgery offers faster recovery.

How Long Does Sciatica Take to Heal?

• Mild cases: 2–4 weeks
• Moderate cases: 6–8 weeks
• Chronic cases may take longer but still improve with care

Can Sciatica Be Prevented?

Yes, prevention includes:

• Regular exercise
• Core muscle strengthening
• Good posture
• Avoiding prolonged sitting

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sciatica permanent?

No. Most cases improve with treatment.

Can sciatica go away on its own?

Yes, many patients recover without surgery.

Is walking good for sciatica?

Yes, gentle walking helps recovery.

Does sciatica affect both legs?

Usually only one leg is affected.

Call to Action

If leg pain or numbness is limiting your daily activities, early consultation with a spine specialist like Dr. Vishal Kundnani can help relieve symptoms and prevent worsening. Learn more about our back pain treatments. Consult at Bombay Hospital or Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai. Book your consultation today for expert sciatica treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.