Sciatica Pain
Pain travelling along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg.
Overview
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the buttocks and down each leg. It most often happens when a herniated disk or an overgrowth of bone puts pressure on the lumbar spine nerve roots, causing inflammation, pain and often numbness in the affected leg.
Although sciatica pain can be serious, cases caused by a herniated disk often clear up with treatment in a few weeks to months. People with severe sciatica and serious leg weakness or bowel or bladder changes may need surgery.
Common symptoms
- Pain following a path from the low back to the buttock and back of the thigh and calf
- Pain ranging from a mild ache to sharp, burning or electric-shock sensations
- Worse with coughing, sneezing or prolonged sitting
- Usually affects only one side of the body
- Numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the leg or foot
Prevention & self-care
- Strengthen the core and hip muscles gradually
- Lift with the legs, not the lower back
- Break up long periods of sitting every 30 minutes
- Keep a supportive mattress and neutral sleeping posture
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, or sudden severe leg weakness.
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