Sciatica is nerve pain that travels down the back of the leg. It is less commonly known as either sciatic neuritis, lumbar radiculopathy, or sciatic neuralgia. 
 

The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the body; it measures three-quarters of an inch in diameter. It originates in the sacral plexus; a network of nerves in the low back (lumbosacral spine). The lumbosacral spine refers to the lumbar spine and the sacrum combined. The sciatic nerve and its nerve branches enable movement and feeling (motor and sensory functions) in the thigh, knee, calf, ankle, foot, and toes.

















Causes of Sciatic Neuritis include:











If the sciatic nerve is injured or becomes inflamed, it causes symptoms called sciatica, which can cause intense pain along any part of the sciatic nerve pathway, from the buttocks to the toes. If the nerve is compressed, caused by conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, symptoms may include a loss of reflexes, weakness, and numbness besides severe pain. 












Sciatic nerve pain can make everyday activities such as walking, sitting, and standing difficult.

In Ayurveda, this condition is known as Gridhrasi. 













According to Ayurveda, Sciatica is caused due to impairment in the Vata i.e. the dosha responsible for the functional ability and movement of the body, and also in some cases due to impairment in the Kapha i.e. the dosha that is responsible for body fluids and lubrication. 

















A faulty digestive system causes the accumulation of toxins (ama) that accumulate in the minute channels of the body.











Treatment for sciatica consists with digestive herbs that restore proper digestion and anti-inflammatory herbal formulations.














 Medicated oils may also be applied to soothe the sciatic nerve.

Panchakarma like Kati basti, massage therapies can be effective in subsiding the pains of sciatica, by reliving the compression on the sciatic nerve.











For more detailed treatment options, you can book a consultation at our Ayurvedic clinic here.