Many are completely unaware of its existence, but the sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in our body. Sciatica refers to the pain that shoots out from the sciatic nerve and can be felt in various areas of the body, including the legs, feet, lower back, and buttocks.

The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in your body. Among other things, it is responsible for the sensation in your feet and legs.
Naturally, many are entirely unaware of its existence, until it begins to hurt.
The term sciatica refers to the pain that starts in the lower back, on either side of the pelvis, and shoots down to the leg. Sometimes the pain reaches to the foot and the tips of the toes, and sometimes it stops in the thigh. Many also feel it on one side of the buttocks.

What causes sciatica pain?

As in many cases involving pain, there are several answers, and it is essential to accurately diagnose the source of pain with a specialist. The leading causes of sciatica pain include pressure exerted on the nerve (by spinal vertebrae, for example), circulatory disorders, and inflammation.
The list also includes herniated or ruptured discs (the most common cause), muscle contractions, and any pressure exertion on the nerve, displacement of the vertebrae, injury (mechanical or degenerative) between the vertebral disc, and more. Vitamin B deficiency may also cause this.

What does sciatica feel like?

Sciatica is unmistakable, with stabbing, burning, or piercing sensations in the area. It sometimes creates a restriction on movement, especially when walking or climbing stairs. Sometimes weakness can also be felt on the foot.

How common is sciatica?

Whether you are an athlete or you spend most of the day sitting down, anybody can be affected by sciatica. More than 20 percent of people will experience at least one bout of sciatica pain during their lifetime, with most cases happening to people between the ages of 45 to 65.

How long does sciatica last?

The good news is that in most cases, sciatica pain goes away on its own in a matter of 8-6 weeks. In fact, few suffer from these pains for a full year (less than 1% of the population).

How is sciatica treated? Is there any advanced instrumentation that can help?

After you have been diagnosed with sciatica by your doctor, it’s time to treat it. For starters, it is important to stay active and move (to some extent), but if the pain is unbearable, rest is definitely helpful.
Some doctors will suggest taking painkillers or injecting steroids, but there is no evidence that these actually improve the condition. Physical therapy may also be beneficial and expedite the end of the pain period.
Another proven method is the use of advanced pain relief technologies, in the form of home appliances, most notably “Olynvolt™ Pocket.”