[header] How to identify sciatica [title] Recognize a slipped or herniated spinal disc. [step] A herniated or slipped disc is the most common cause of sciatica. [substeps] The spinal column is made of multiple vertebrae, enfolding or containing nerves as a sort of protection. 
Between each vertebrae there is a disc made of a fibrous jelly material that ensures the support of the vertebrae and fixes them in place. If the outer part of the jelly ruptures, gel leaks out and escapes between the upper and lower vertebrae, and the disc slips.