Sciatica

Sciatica refers to radiating pain along the sciatic nerve pathway, typically caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome compressing lumbar nerve roots. Symptoms include sharp, shooting pain from the lower back through the buttock and down one leg, often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Accurate diagnosis through physical examination and imaging studies such as MRI helps identify the underlying structural cause. Treatment approaches range from anti-inflammatory medications and targeted physical therapy to epidural steroid injections for persistent cases. Most patients achieve significant relief within six to twelve weeks through conservative management, though surgery may be warranted for progressive neurological deficits.