http://www.physicalhealthconsultants.com/the-physio-way.html Sciatica pain is often associated with slip disc (intervertebral disc prolapse) in the lower lumbar spine.Sciatic nerve that is the main nerve supply to legs, is compressed due to the above and thus the sensation passes down to the legs.Pain is mostly felt in the back near nerve roots and radiates towards the legs as a pricking or numbing sensation.Disc compression may be mild or complete,severity of pain depends on that.There are many other factors that lead to similar pain sensation. On proper physical assessment with manual tests,your physio may be able to trace the cause of pain.If needed,MRI or X ray may be done for accurate diagnosis.Radiating sciatic pain that comes due to muscular causes such as hamstring tightness or piriformis muscle spasm may need different approach towards treatment than other reasons such as slip,disc or joint inflammation.Treatment duration varies depending on the cause of pain.Generally d...