Definition

A type of pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs, often caused by issues in the spine.

Example

After lifting heavy boxes, she experienced severe sciatica that made it difficult to walk.

Conversation

Have you ever experienced sciatica?

Yeah, I had it for a few weeks last year and it was really painful.

That sounds terrible! What did you do to feel better?

I started physical therapy, and it really helped relieve the sciatica pain.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sciatica → It is formed from "sciaticus" (from Latin, meaning related to the hip or thigh) and "-a" (a suffix used in medical terminology). The term refers to pain that originates from the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'sciaticus' which relates to the hip or thigh, helping you remember that 'sciatica' refers to pain associated with the sciatic nerve in that area.

Visually Confused Words