Sciatica describes the symptom, while piriformis syndrome describes one possible cause of it. In piriformis syndrome, the deep buttock muscle irritates the sciatic nerve as it passes underneath, rather than the nerve being compressed at the spine. The pain pattern can look similar, but the testing differs: spinal causes usually change with bending and sitting, while buttock causes are often reproduced by direct pressure and hip rotation.

Permanent damage is uncommon. Most nerve irritation settles as pressure and inflammation reduce, and sensation returns gradually. Nerves recover slowly, so tingling or patchy numbness can linger after the pain has gone. The signs worth acting on quickly are progressive weakness in the foot or leg, numbness around the groin, or bladder and bowel changes, which need same-day medical assessment.

Sitting increases pressure through the lumbar discs, so it commonly aggravates disc-related sciatica. The fix is usually frequency rather than furniture: standing and walking briefly every 20 to 30 minutes changes the load more than any single chair setting. Supporting the curve of your lower back and keeping your hips slightly higher than your knees also helps. Some people with stenosis find sitting relieving instead.

Evidence for traction and decompression devices as a standalone treatment for sciatica is weak. Some people report short-term relief, but the effect rarely lasts once you return to normal activity. They are not a substitute for a program that addresses movement, strength and load. If you already own an inversion table, mention it at your appointment so your physiotherapist can advise on safe use alongside your plan.

Side lying with a pillow between your knees keeps your pelvis level and reduces tension on the nerve, and it suits most people. If you sleep on your back, a pillow under your knees can help. Stomach sleeping tends to aggravate lower back symptoms. Getting in and out of bed by rolling as one unit, rather than twisting, avoids a painful start to the day.

Yes, jobs involving repeated heavy lifting, whole-body vibration such as truck or machinery operation, and prolonged awkward postures carry higher rates of sciatica. Long-haul driving combines vibration with sustained sitting, which is a particular risk. Risk drops when lifting technique, rotation between tasks and overall strength improve, so your plan usually includes work-specific advice alongside treatment.