Sciatica is usually a symptom of a structural problem in the lower back, where the sciatic nerve is compressed or trapped. This causes great pain, affecting the buttocks and rear of the thighs and often travels or 'shoots' down the back of the leg, sometimes reaching as far down as the feet. In some cases muscle weakness, numbness and a tingling sensation is also experienced.

There are many causes of sciatica, including slipped disc, infection, inflammation of the sciatic nerve, or after the a minor injury from overexertion or poor posture.

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