Sciatica is a form of nerve pain that results from irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the human body. The term sciatica describes symptoms of leg pain that can extend from the lower back all the way down the back of the leg and into the feet. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in the lower back that is placing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Other causes include irritation of the sciatic nerve that can result from a number of factors, including tumors, muscle damage, piriformis syndrome, infections and internal bleeding. People who suffer from sciatica often experience a mix of symptoms that include sensations of burning, tingling or numbness in the lower back, buttocks and back of the thigh.
