
Sciatica
Sciatica is a painful condition caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs. It is often caused by a herniated disk in the lower back, but can also be the result of spinal stenosis, spinal tumors, and other conditions. To help prevent sciatica, it is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a healthy weight through exercise and a balanced diet, stretching regularly to improve flexibility and relieve tension in the lower back, practicing good posture and body mechanics when lifting, using ergonomic equipment at work, and getting adequate sleep on a supportive mattress and pillow. [via Medline Plus]