San Diego chiropractor, Dr. Brian Garret of Garrett Downtown Chiropractic realizes that many people may complain of sciatica, or self-diagnose sciatica, without knowing the true nature of the condition or how it is defined and treated. Beginning with the definition of the term itself, “Sciatica” refers specifically to pain experienced along the sciatic nerve path. This nerve extends from its root at the lower back and continues down each leg. Sciatica is not a diagnosis or disease in and of itself, like Alzheimer’s disease. It is a symptom, like itching or sneezing. As a symptom, sciatica can range from the occasional painful nuisance all the way to an excruciating pain that nearly debilitates sufferers.