What is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back, through your hips, all the way down each leg, it is the longest nerve in our bodies. When a person experiences pain or discomfort from the sciatic nerve it is referred to as sciatica. Sciatica is caused when there is compression on the nerve, usually from injuries such as a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine or a narrowing of the spine. Typically sciatica is an injury that develops over time as opposed to a sudden onset. The course of treatment often depends on the length, persistence and severity of the pain and discomfort. Common warning signs of sciatica can include a burning sensation or shooting pain starting at the lower back that radiates down the front or back of the thigh, leg or foot, oftentimes accompanied with a numbness presenting in the back of the leg. More commonly sciatica presents itself in one leg although in rare cases it can affect both legs. If you are suffering from sciatica and your goal is to restore your mobility and get you back to your normal life, contact the office of William Capicotto MD. For over 25 years our caring, compassionate, and knowledgeable staff has been treating patients with neck and back injuries, contact us today at 716-881-0382.