The ‘sciatica’ is the largest nerve that runs from the spine to the legs. When this nerve is compressed or blocked for any reason, severe pain is felt.
Why does pain spread to the legs?
When the disc between the bones of the spine is pushed (slipped disc) or the bones wear out, they press on the nearby nerve. Due to this pressure, pain and numbness are felt along the paths of the nerve—i.e. to the hip, thigh, and below the knee.
Main symptoms:
Lightning-like pain that spreads from the middle to only one leg.
Tingling and numbness in the legs or feet.
Pain increases when sitting or coughing.
Weakness in the leg.
Main causes:
Disc Herniation: The jelly-like fluid inside the disc comes out and presses on the nerve.
Spinal Stenosis: As we age, the holes in the spine narrow and the nerves become compressed.
Wrong lifestyle: Lifting too much weight, sitting for long periods of time, and being overweight.
