Back to top Your Back Sciatica Sciatica is pain that radiates down the leg. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It originates in the sacral region of the spine and runs through the midline of the buttocks where it divides, continuing down the back of the thigh and into the foot. Sciatica is characterized by a sharp shooting pain down the back of the thigh as well as burning sensations, tingling, or numbness. Sciatica is caused by nerve compression associated with disc herniation, stenosis, injury, inflammation, arthritis or muscle spasms.
Treatment includes rest, medications and occasionally surgery.
Back to top Your Back Spondylolisthesis Spondylolisthesis is a forward slipping of one vertebra over another and is caused by wear and tear of the discs and ligaments in the spine. Spondylolisthesis occurs most commonly in the lumbar region of the spine and results in lower back pain. If nerve compression occurs, there may be numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs. Treatment may include the use of a back brace or physical therapy. If the spine is unstable, surgery to fuse the site may be necessary.