What does sciatica refer to?

Sciatica specifically refers to neuralgia or pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. This condition typically arises when the nerve is compressed, often due to herniated discs, bone spurs, or narrowed spine (spinal stenosis). The resultant pain can vary from mild to severe and is often characterized by sharp, burning sensations, tingling, or numbness radiating down the leg.

The other options do not accurately describe sciatica. A muscle strain pertains to injuries in the muscle tissue, affecting its fibers and not specifically involving nerve pain. Conditions affecting the feet or heart conditions also fall outside the definition of sciatica, as they relate to different anatomical regions and types of medical issues. Therefore, neuralgia along the sciatic nerve is the correct definition of sciatica.