What is sciatica?

Sciatica is when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your hips to your feet, is irritated. It usually gets better in 4 to 6 weeks but can last longer.

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica is caused by irritation of the root(s) of the lower lumbar and lumbosacral spine. The pain can be mild or severe

How do I know if I have sciatica?

If you aren’t sure whether your pain is caused by sciatica, the NHS make it easier to check by following these tips:

If you have sciatica, your:

• bottom

• backs of your legs

• feet and toes

may feel:

• painful – the pain may be stabbing, burning or shooting

• tingling – like pins and needles

• numb

• weak

Your symptoms may be worse when moving, sneezing or coughing.

You may also have back pain, but this is not usually as bad as the pain in your bottom, legs or feet.

How can I treat my sciatica?

Sciatica can be horrible and debilitating. It can make it hard to want to get up and moving. However, Dr. Mark Kovacs, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, said that the best way to alleviate most sciatica pain is to do “any stretch that can externally rotate the hip to provide some relief.”(Mark Kovacs is not endorsing Flarin or any other medicinal products.)

4 exercises that help to relieve sciatica