Overview

Because the sciatic nerve is so large and stretches from the lower back to the feet, sciatica symptoms are often more severe when sitting or standing for long periods of time. Sciatica pain can also be felt periodically, or constantly, depending on the level of compression of the nerves Sciatica can affect anyone, but certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing sciatic symptoms. Sciatica risk factors include obesity, diabetes and decreased activity levels.