Sciatica is characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve—which branches from your lower back, through your hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body.

Sciatica most commonly occurs when a herniated disc, bone spur, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compresses part of the nerve. This causes inflammation, pain, and often some numbness or tingling in the affected leg.

Typical Symptoms of Sciatica

The hallmark symptom is pain that originates in the lumbar spine and travels down the back of the leg. This pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating pain. It can feel like a jolt or electric shock. It is often worsened by sitting, coughing, or sneezing.

Effective Non-Surgical Treatments

Modern spine care successfully resolves over 90% of sciatica cases without surgical intervention. Key methods include:
1. **Spinal Decompression**: Gently separates vertebrae to retract herniated discs and relieve nerve pinching.
2. **Targeted Deep Tissue Therapy**: Reduces acute inflammation around the nerve root.
3. **Physical Therapy & Nerve Gliding**: Specialized movements to restore flexibility to the sciatic nerve pathway.