Sciatica refers to pain that caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve.It 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.Anything that irritates this nerve can cause pain, ranging from mild to severe. Sciatica is usually caused by a compressed nerve in the lower spine.

Common symptoms of sciatica include:

• Lower back pain.
• Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting.
• Hip pain.
• Burning or tingling down the leg.
• Weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving the leg or foot.
• A constant pain on one side of the rear.
• A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up.

Diagnosis

Sciatica is diagnosed with a physical exam and medical history.
The typical symptoms and certain examination maneuvers help the health- care practitioner to diagnose sciatica.Sometimes, x-rays, films, and other tests, such as CAT scan or MRI scan,Electromyogram are used to further define causes of sciatica


Treat Sciatica without Surgery

After evaluation of the cause of pain in Sciatica Physiotherapist recommend Combination Therapy.
The Therapy usually comprises of exercises which focus on three key areas: strengthening, stretching, and aerobic conditioning.
Strengthening exercises. Many exercises can help strengthen the spinal column and the supporting muscles, ligaments, and tendons.