Sciatica is a painful syndrome which is caused by compression or irritation of a nerve deep in the buttock and down the leg, called the Sciatic nerve.

The pain associated with sciatica can be caused by a number of underlying conditions. These may include: a herniated (bulging) disc in the lower back, bony growths on the spine, arthritis in the low back or hip, tight muscles in the buttock or trauma to the lower back. Sciatica may also be present during pregnancy due to the altered mechanics of the pelvis and low back as the baby grows and develops.