Sciatica is a set of symptoms that is caused due to the irritation or compression of the nerves in the lower region of the spine. These nerves exit the spine, making up the sciatic nerve. When the sciatic nerve is compressed or damaged, it causes a very painful condition.
There are several conditions that may affect the sciatic nerve and cause pain. One of the most common causes of sciatic pain is the extension of the spinal disc from its otherwise normal position. This causes it to irritate the roots of the nerves in the lower region fof the back. Since these nerves connect up to form the sciatic nerve, a pain in the roots of these nerves can ultimately cause pain in the sciatic nerve. Sciatica may cause lower back pain and hip pain.

Sometimes, the piriformis muscle may irritate the sciatic nerve, causing a condition known as piriformis syndrome. This too causes pain in both the hip and the lower back, both of which are the most common sciatica symptoms.

The best sciatica treatment is to exercise. There are specific exercises which can help overcome sciatica symptoms. Even though it is a common belief that sciatica can only be cured by taking bed rest, it is not true. If you are suffering from sciatica, movement of the spinal and back muscles is extremely important. Without proper movement which can be achieved by exercising, the entire spinal structure will become weak and deconditioned. When the spinal structure is weak, it will not be able to support the weight of the back. This could also lead to injuries and strain on the spine.

Stretching is the best exercise for sciatica. Stretching exercises target the tense muscles in the back and loosen them up to ease the pain. A physiotherapist or a chiropractor may be able to advise you on specific exercises, depending on the cause of the sciatic pain. Spine specialists are trained to recommend exercises for sciatica that causes pain in the legs and the back. However, it is extremely important to get an accurate diagnosis before you begin to take any kind of treatment for sciatica.

Sciatica is usually caused by medical conditions which are very serious in nature. While stretching exercises and back exercises may provide temporary relief, the underlying medical condition should be attended to.

Postures of yoga, when practiced correctly help to realign the spinal column and get rid of structural faults. You can use an exercise ball for your stretching exercises.