Sciatica is a condition marked by pain that follows the route of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and runs down each leg.

This type of pain typically occurs when something—like a herniated disc or bone spur—compresses or irritates part of the sciatic nerve. The result can be inflammation, pain, and sometimes numbness or tingling in the leg that’s affected.

While sciatica pain can be quite intense, most cases improve within a few weeks with non-surgical treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication. However, if the condition leads to severe leg weakness, or there are changes in bowel or bladder control, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerve.