Sciatica is characterized by pain in the back or leg due to pressure on the sciatic nerve. Pain can vary in degree, beginning in the low back or hip and often extending to the foot. Sciatica is exaggerated by sitting and may also arise when the body jerks suddenly—as during coughing, sneezing or laughing. Though sciatica can heal on its own, treatments like bed rest, heat therapy, physical therapy, epidurals, acupuncture, pain medications or massage are used to expedite healing and relieve pain.

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Sciatica rarely requires surgical treatment. However, if conservative treatments have no effect on the inflamed nerve, a slipped or herniated disc may be to blame. In this case, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged spine and eliminate pain and complications from long-term nerve pressure.