The term sciatica describes the symptoms of leg pain and possibly tingling, numbness or weakness that originates in the low back and travels through the buttock and down the large sciatic nerve in the back of the leg.

Many runners experience this unfortunate symptom in their lifetime and are unsure of how to handle it. According to a recent article on livestrong.com sciatica pain for runners may be better healed by continuing the exercise rather than resting the muscles.

The Post states that running uses the muscles affected by sciatica and that running is not the cause of sciatica but may in fact help prevent it from occurring. Exercising regularly can benefit your general health, and can improve the condition of your back.

Although Sciatica may not be caused by running it is important to remember that when you run you may inflame the pain due to poor posture or footwork. It is also imperative before running to consult with your physician  about your symptoms and to make sure that running is not going to worsen your condition.

If running is not an option for you, ask your doctor about other exercises that may involve less impact on your back such as elliptical training or bicycling.