Sciatica is pain that travels along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back to your feet. The most frequent causes of sciatica are a herniated disc or an expansion of bone pressing against a portion of the nerve. In the affected leg, this results in inflammation, discomfort, and frequently some numbness. Typically, sciatica only affects one leg at a time, but it can affect both legs. Although sciatica pain can be extremely painful, most patients get better with therapy in a few weeks. Surgery might be necessary for people with severe sciatica, significant leg weakness, or bowel or bladder problems. Sciatica is more common in people between the age of 30-50 years.
Common symptoms include:
Low back pain
Pain in the affected leg which worsens with sitting
Hip pain
Burning down the leg
Numbness and weakness of the leg
Difficulty moving the leg or feet
You should visit your general practitioner or your neurologist if:
Self-care techniques do not help symptoms
The pain is severe, lasts longer than a week, or worsens
Sciatica develops when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed. Also, there are some factors that increase the risk of developing sciatica:
Age-related changes in the spine, such as herniated discs
Being overweight increases pressure on the spine
A work that involves twisting your back, lifting large objects, or spending a lot of time behind the wheel
Prolonged sitting
Diabetes
In addition to the physical examination, your general practitioner or neurologist may order some imaging tests like x-ray, CT scan, MRI, and Electromyography.
Sciatica treatment may include:
Anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen
Pain relief medicine like paracetamol
Muscle relaxant like cyclobenzaprine
Physiotherapy including exercise and massage techniques
Heat or cold applied to the muscles
In severe persistent cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the herniated disc
How to prevent sciatica from coming back:
Stay active and exercise regularly
Use a safe technique when lifting heavy objects
Have a good posture while standing or sitting (especially when using a computer)
Keep your weight within the normal range
Avoid sitting for a long time
Avoid smoking
Get the answers you need, all in one place. Explore expert-written blogs, browse our extensive FAQs for quick answers to common concerns, or use our Symptom Checker for preliminary insights.
Need in-depth details? Our Disease Directory provides comprehensive information to help you understand conditions better.
Whatever you're looking for, we’re here to support your health journey, seamlessly and effortlessly.
Reviewed Blogs & Medical Guidelines
and Diseases Explained