Sciatica can be of two types- ACUTE AND CHRONIC.

Acute Sciatica: It is a short-term sciatica that lasts for four to eight weeks. It can be managed temporarily with the help of ice packs or hot packs.

Chronic Sciatica: It is a long term sciatica which requires thorough investigations, and the support of medications and physiotherapy.

It is essential to arrive at the cause of Sciatica for a proper treatment protocol to be planned.

Common symptoms of Sciatica include:

• Pain: Pain is felt in the buttocks or leg and is worse when sitting. The pain can be radiating or constant, mild or severe depending on the extent of nerve compression. It extends from the lower back, to the thigh and even leg, foot and toes, and is typically termed a 'radiating pain'.
• Sensations: Burning, shooting, pricking, pinching, tingling or numbness sensations may be experienced throughout the leg, apart from other symptoms of sciatica
• Limitation of Movement: The patient may find it difficult to move the leg or foot because of numbness or weakness so much so that even standing may be impossible. Sciatica usually affects only one side of the lower half of the body.
• Bladder Incontinence: In severe cases, there may be bladder control issues also along with increased symptoms of sciatica.