Part 2/6:
The term "sciatica" refers to pain that is attributed to the compression of the sciatic nerve, one of the longest nerves in the body, which runs from the lumbar region through to the sacral region and into the hips. The most common culprits for this nerve compression include herniated discs in the spine or overgrowth of bone, although factors like obesity, prolonged sitting, and diabetes can contribute to the onset of sciatica.
For many, sciatica pain can be severe and unbearable at night or during activities like sneezing, coughing, and lengthy walking. In many cases, the good news is that sciatica may resolve within a few weeks without the need for surgical intervention, particularly when holistic approaches like yoga are adopted.