30/07/2026
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that travels along the sciatic nerve - the longest nerve in your body, running from your lower back, through your hip and buttock, and down each leg.
Think of it like a garden hose that runs from your back all the way down to your foot. If something pinches or presses on that hose anywhere along its path, water (in this case, nerve signals) gets disrupted, and you feel it downstream.
But what causes it?
Usually a problem in your lower spine, like a bulging or herniated disc, a bone spur, or a tight muscle, presses on the nerve root where it exits your spine. That pressure sends pain signals shooting down the whole length of the nerve.
What does it feel like?
- Pain that starts in your lower back or buttock and radiates down one leg (usually just one side)
- Can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning, or electric-shock-like pain
- Sometimes comes with numbness, tingling ("pins and needles"), or weakness in the leg or foot
- Often gets worse when you sit, cough, or sneeze
If you've had Sciatica before or you're currently experiencing it, please send us a message or give us a call at our Clevedon practice!
