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Anyone who has ever suffered from sciatica knows how dibilitatingly painful the experience can be. This unpleasant condition is called "sciatica" because it originates in the sciatic nerve, which runs from the pelvis and lower back, through the buttock and hip area, and down the back of both legs. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body and is responsible for operating many lower leg muscles and supplying feeling to the legs, thighs and feet. The pain associated with sciatica can be crippling for some, while only mildly uncomfortable for others.

It is impossible to list the symptoms of Sciatica, because sciatica isn't a medical condition in and of itself. Rather, the term actually refers to a broad group of symptoms collectively called sciatica. The pain and numbness associated with sciatica are indicators of damage or irritation to the sciatic nerve.

There are several possible causes of this radiating pain, including a herniated disk or various spinal disorders. Sciatica typically heals itself without treatment within six weeks or so, but the length and severity of the symptoms vary according to the specific condition that is affecting the nerve.

Sufferers can ease their pain with exercise, over-the-counter medications and by applying heat and cold compresses. In more serious or lingering cases, sufferers may opt for surgery to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

The most common symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower spine and travels down the back of the legs. The physical discomfort can occur at nearly any location along the nerve and varies in intensity, from a dull ache to an intense burning sensation to excruciating pain. Sufferers have also described pain similar to that of an electric shock. In most cases, the pain is mild in the beginning and slowly grows more and more intense. Coughing, sneezing, walking or sitting for too long can intensify the pain. Feelings of discomfort are typically specific to one side of the lower body, but may travel down from the lower back all the way down to the calf.

While pain is the primary symptom of sciatica, sufferers may also experience a feeling of pins-and-needles in the toes or foot area, muscle weakness and numbness of the leg or foot. Mind lower back pain has also been reported in many cases, although it is generally much less severe than leg pain. In rare cases, people have experienced a loss of control over their bladder or bowels. However, this is not common and suggests a much more serious condition, called cauda equina syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.

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