Sciatica is caused by compression of a nerve root usually due to a herniated intervertebral disc, a degenerated disc or a nonaligned vertebral segment. It is often presented with multiple symptoms including low back pain and leg pain, which can be misleading. Treatment depends on the type of symptoms. Thus, understanding the diagnosis of the symptoms plays an important role.

Sciatica pain can occur during pregnancy, when the uterus sometimes rests on the sciatic nerve. It is normal for a woman to put on weight during pregnancy, causing the vertebrae to put a pressure on the nerves. Sciatica will occur if the woman is not careful about her postures. Poor postures will lead to pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can be the major cause for back pain during pregnancy. Sciatica can also be caused due to sudden and involuntary tightening of muscles in the back, or due to contraction of the piriformis muscle. Contraction of the muscle leads to compression on the sciatic nerve and hence the back pain originates. The pain may be due to prolonged sitting or improper sleeping postures. So this can become a pain on the nerve, if not corrected by regular stretching exercises.

Back pain that runs down the leg is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve. Most commonly, this is caused by one of the intervertebral discs lying between the vertebrae that is pushed out or herniated. The intervertebral discs normally cushion the spinal nerves coming out of the spinal column. When they are herniated they no longer provide this protection for the spinal nerves. The best way to treat sciatica and get relief from the excruciating pain is naturally to try and remove the pressure on the sciatic nerve. Very often, providing some kind of support for your back will help relieve the pressure and reduce the pain.

Removing compression in over ninety percent of sciatica enables the spinal column disc to gain recovery, at a more normal rate. Though genetics can play its own part in the recovery chances (and rate) of a person with a herniated disc, a general solution in treatment is applied-that of adequate rest from all physical rigor, and the use of a back support. The services of a trained physiotherapical masseur will come in handy very greatly to supplement stretching exercise.

Massage by professionals or a personal exercise regime is meant to loosen the muscles and reduce inflammation. This would give good relief from back pain. Sometimes, the patient may require physiotherapy over a long period. If the patient learns to correct his or her faulty posture, as well as undergoing physiotherapy, he or she can be sure to get relief from back pain very quickly.

To achieve a better posture, you should not stand for a long time. Choose an improved chair to seat or, at any rate, a better posture while sitting in a chair and use a pillow for extra support for your back, if necessary. At times, administration of anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed to quickly reduce the swelling and soreness.

By doing just a bit of sciatica stretches every day will also help you get relief instantly.