Sciatica is typically the impingement (squeezing) of the sciatic nerve, this can be brought on from a herniated disc, sacroiliac joint dysfunction or simply irritation from the piriformis muscle that runs over it. Irritation of the sciatic nerve may produce tingling, numbness or a feeling of weakness most generally through the buttock, hamstring, calves and toes.

Some of the most common symptoms of sciatica are;

• irritation usually on one side
• pain that is increased while sitting
• burning sensation, tingling down the leg
• difficulty in simple movements of the leg
• a deep yet sharp pain that makes even walking painful
• general deep ache when getting out of bed, standing up from a chair