What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. It is usually caused by a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compressing part of the nerve. Sciatica typically affects only one side of your body and can cause inflammation, pain, and sometimes numbness in the affected leg. Treatment options range from self-care and physical therapy to medications and, in severe cases, surgery.