What is sciatica

The term 'sciatica' describes the symptoms of leg pain that start in the lower back and travel down the sciatic nerve in the back of each leg.

Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as a herniated disc or other spinal abnormality which causes pain down the sciatic nerve. This nerve, the longest in the body, runs from each side of the lower spine into the back of the thigh and all the way down to the foot. While sciatica can be painful and debilitating, it is rare for damage to the nerve to be permanent.

A number of alternative treatments exist, each with their own advantages and disadvantages, but where possible 'non pharmacological' treatments ie. drug free, are preferred by doctors. These treatments have a reduced side effect profile and are safer when used in combination with others, acting to reduce the pain and often the medication used by patients.