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Originally Posted by retiredguy123
I think the term "sciatica" refers to any pain caused by pressure or irritation of the sciatic nerve. The nerve extends from the brain stem all the way to the foot. The pressure can be caused by a bulging or herniated disc, or by bone deposits caused by arthritis. The pain can be felt anywhere along the nerve, even remotely from where the pressure occurs. I had a herniated disc in my lower back years ago that caused severe leg pain. It was diagnosed with an MRI. I had surgery, and the pain is gone, but I really don't know if the surgery was the cure, or just time. But, I don't think physical therapy will help much. If you can get an MRI, it may show where the nerve is being compressed. Good luck.
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I too had a herniated disc that was leaning against the sciatic nerve and causing excruciating pain down my left leg. I was also experiencing foot drop which is a condition where the foot and ankle don't support the weight and basically "flop". I had two epidural shots to relieve the pain, but they didn't do much, so was referred to a neurosurgeon who examined me and said the cause was the bulging disc and said surgery was necessary and quickly before permanent damage resulted. I had the surgery three days later and have had zero problem since. I am sure there are many causes for sciatic nerve pain, but in my case surgery did the trick.