Sciatica is pain that originates when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated. Defined as a group of symptoms, sciatica ranges from mild to severe and is usually caused by a compressed nerve root in the lower or lumbar spine.Â
Often referred to as back pain, sciatica differs because its symptoms are not limited only to the back. The sciatic nerve is the widest and longest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs, ending just below the knee.Â
The sciatic nerve is in charge of controlling various of the lower leg muscles and allows this area to be sensitive to the touch.Â
Sciatica is a very common symptoms of a variety of different conditions. The spine constains discs in between the vertebra which act as a cushion and allows the spine to be flexible. But, in the case of a herniated disc, a disc could be pushed out of place and put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing the familiar symptoms. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.Â