Sciatic nerve pain, commonly called sciatica, is a type of pain that moves along the large sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to each leg. It can be treated in a few weeks without surgery in most cases. However, it may develop as a chronic condition that can be managed through clinical treatment options and therapies. The condition can affect anyone and is triggered by an injury or degeneration due to aging.

Symptoms
The pain here is typically intermittent and mildly irritating, but it can become severe for some. Here are common signs to recognize:

– Pain in the lower back
– Pain in the leg or the back that worsens while sitting
– Hip pain
– Burning or tingling sensation
– Weakness or numbness
– Constant pain on one side of the rear

Causes
Sciatica develops when the sciatic nerve experiences excessive stress and pressure. While there may be other contributing factors, two leading causes of this condition are:

– Pinched sciatic nerve due to an overgrowth of bone (bone spurs) or a herniated disk in the spine
– Additional pressure on the spine due to diabetes, twisting the back in an injury, and lack of rest

Treatment options
Sciatic nerve pain can often be treated in a few weeks. To determine the best course of action, a doctor will first examine the patient asking a few questions and conducting simple exercises. However, in severe conditions, the doctor asks for image testing to check the bone spurs and herniated disks. The diagnostic tests include an X-Ray, MRI, CT scan, and electromyography. Based on the results, the doctor may recommend the following options:

Prescription treatment: When one experiences mild pain, doctors prescribe muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory treatment to help manage symptoms. The treatment is aimed at reducing the inflammation around the affected nerve, which can reduce the pain. The effects usually last a few months.

Physical therapy: To improve and maintain proper posture and strengthen the core, doctors may recommend a physical therapy program to help reduce nerve pressure. Some common exercises for pain relief are knee-to-chest, standing hamstring stretch, pelvic tilt, glute bridges, and lying deep gluteal stretch. It is important to consult a doctor or physical therapist and avoid following a self-developed routine. Experts can recommend safe routines considering the level of pain and risks.

Surgery: In severe cases, the doctor or surgeon will remove the overgrown bone or herniated disk that is pressurizing the nerve. Surgery is considered the last resort and is only performed in cases where sciatica causes loss of bowel or bladder control, severe weakness, or pain that does not go away with other treatments.

Remedies: Common home remedies for sciatica include hot and cold compresses to relieve the pain. One can place ice packs on the affected part, and when the pain subsides, they can place a heating pad wrapped in a towel on the affected area.

One should consult a doctor if they observe persistent back pain or difficulty moving the legs or feet. Sciatic nerve pain can often be managed with prescription treatment, physical therapy, and home remedies.