Sciatica: What Is It and What Can I Do About It?

Sciatica pain can be one of the most uncomfortable and disruptive injuries.  The pain is often sharp and can become chronic and unrelenting leaving one overwhelmed on what to do next.  It is a literal pain in the a$% (and often down the leg) than can put a stop to enjoying life.  The good news is that we are going to tackle this very common injury.  We will look at why one may be confronted by this injury and, better still, what one can do to get back to a normal, pain-free life…we know this means a lot to you.
 
First off, let’s chat a little about what sciatica really is.  It is obvious the name sciatica refers to a problem with the sciatic nerve, but what does that mean?  The sciatic nerve is a long, thick nerve that forms when the lumbar (4/5) and sacral nerve roots exit the spine then converge and continue through the pelvis down the leg where it splits above the knee.  An issue with this nerve may occur anywhere along its path.  Think about the nerve as a real thick wire where electricity should flow freely, but If something cuts off the current it can result in pain.  This happens when the nerve is compressed or if inflammation irritates it.

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