From Laura Inverarity, D.O.,
Your Guide to Physical Therapy.
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

Sciatica is a common form of low back pain and leg pain. It is usually caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve from a herniated disc. Sciatica occurs most frequently in people between 30 and 50 years of age and can be a debilitating disorder in some people.
Sciatica normally only affects one side of the lower extremities, and the pain often radiates from the lower back all the way down the back of the thigh and the leg. Depending on where the sciatic nerve is affected, the pain may also radiate to the foot or toes.
Common treatments for sciatica include medical management as well as a physical therapy program of stretching and mobilizations.