According to the Merriam Webster Online Dictionary, the word "sciatic" is an adjective referring to anything related to the hip. The term sciatic is often used in reference to the sciatic nerves---the largest pair of nerves in the body. They run from the lower back down the backs of the buttocks and thighs all the way to the feet.

Effects

Many people suffer from sciatic nerve pain that occurs when the nerve roots leading to the sciatic nerves are compressed due to spinal injury or damage. People with sciatic nerve pain (also known as sciatica) experience aches, tingling, pin-prick sensations, and weakness in the buttocks, legs, and feet. The condition usually affects only one side of the body.

Causes

The most common cause of sciatic nerve pain is a bulging or herniated disc in the spine. Other causes include bone spurs, trauma to the spine (such as a car accident), and spinal stenosis (compression of the spine).

Treatment

Treatment of sciatic nerve pain includes controlling the symptoms with rest and anti-inflammatory medications such as Tylenol and ibuprofen. Occasionally surgery is needed to treat spinal problems such as herniated discs, but this is the exception rather than the rule. Sciatica usually resolves itself somewhere between three weeks and three months.

Misconceptions

Not all pain and tingling in the lower body is caused by sciatic nerve pain. Other common causes of sciatica-like symptoms include bursitis (an infection of the fluid sacs between the tendon and the bone), sprains, strains and peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage that tends to affect the feet and legs).

Religious Significance

Jews keeping kosher may not eat the sciatic nerves of animals.

Source:

Spine Universe

Judaism 101