Sciatica is nerve pain that begins in the lower back and travels down one leg. It occurs when the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, becomes irritated or compressed.
The sciatic nerve forms from several nerve roots in the lower spine and runs through the buttock and down the back of each leg. When these nerve roots are compressed or inflamed, pain can radiate along the path of the nerve.
Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying spine condition, not a disease itself.
Sciatica symptoms typically affect one side of the body and may include:
The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe nerve pain.
Sciatica occurs when a nerve root in the lower spine becomes compressed.
Common causes include:
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of sciatica include:
Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination. A doctor will evaluate pain patterns and check muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation.
Tests may include movements that stretch the sciatic nerve, such as the straight leg raise test.
Imaging tests may be used to identify the cause of nerve compression, including:
These tests help determine the exact cause of sciatica.
Treatment for sciatica usually begins with conservative care.
Common treatment options include:
If symptoms continue, steroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.
Surgery may be necessary in severe cases, especially if there is progressive weakness, severe nerve compression, or loss of bowel or bladder control.
Persistent lower back pain, neck pain, or radiating nerve pain should not be ignored. Early evaluation allows for proper diagnosis and targeted treatment, helping prevent progression and long-term complications.
