Also known as Sciatica, it is a pain in the lower back that can radiate down to the buttocks and the legs, and occasionally to the feet as well. Also known as lumbago or lumbar radiculopathy, the pain occurs as a result of pressure on the sciatic nerve, which is formed from lumbar roots that emerge from the spinal column. It rises into the pelvis, and travels down the buttocks, the legs, and into the feet. Occurring on both sides of the body, these nerves are the largest in the body, with diameter as much as a finger, they branch out at several points along their path. Sciatica occurs when these nerves become irritated, most often because of a herniated vertebral disc that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve as it emerges from the spinal column.
Sciatica causes pain that may be constant or intermittent, and it may include numbness, tingling or even a burning sensation. Coughing, sneezing, bending over, or lifting heavy objects often increases the pain. In certain cases, weakening of muscles in the buttocks, legs, and/or feet may take place.