Sciatica is not a disease by itself, but a term used to describe pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve. Many people first notice sciatica as a sharp or burning pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and travels down one leg. For some, it is an occasional discomfort; for others, it can significantly interfere with daily activities such as walking, sitting, or sleeping.
This page explains what sciatica is, why it occurs, how it feels, and how it is commonly managed, helping you better understand the condition.
What Is the Sciatic Nerve?
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It begins in the lower spine, passes through the buttock, and travels down the back of each leg to the foot. It controls muscles in the leg and provides sensation to the skin of the thigh, leg, and foot.
Sciatica occurs when this nerve is irritated, inflamed, or compressed at any point along its path.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Slipped or Herniated Disc
One of the most common causes. When a disc in the lower spine bulges or ruptures, it can press on the sciatic nerve, causing pain that travels down the leg.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back can compress nerve roots, especially during standing or walking.
Degenerative Changes of the Spine
Age-related wear and tear, such as disc degeneration or arthritis of the spine, may irritate nerve roots.
Spondylolisthesis
This occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another, narrowing the space for nerves.
Muscle-Related Compression
Tight or inflamed muscles in the buttock region, such as the piriformis muscle, can compress the sciatic nerve (piriformis syndrome).
Injury or Trauma
Falls, accidents, or sudden heavy lifting may trigger sciatic nerve irritation.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica usually affects one side of the body and may include:
- Pain radiating from the lower back or buttock to the leg
- Sharp, shooting, or burning pain
- Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or bending
The intensity can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
Medical evaluation is recommended if:
- Pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain is severe or worsening
- There is numbness or weakness in the leg or foot
- Walking becomes difficult
- Pain is associated with bowel or bladder control issues (medical emergency)
How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Detailed history of symptoms
- Physical examination focusing on nerve function and movement
Investigations may include:
- MRI scan to identify nerve compression
- X-rays to assess bone alignment
- CT scan in selected cases
Common Approaches to Managing Sciatica
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Care
Most people improve with:
- Short periods of rest and activity modification
- Pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medications
- Physiotherapy and guided stretching exercises
- Posture correction
- Heat or cold therapy
Interventional Pain Management
In some cases:
- Epidural steroid injections
- Nerve root blocks
These aim to reduce nerve inflammation and pain.
Surgical Management
Surgery is considered only when:
- Pain persists despite adequate conservative treatment
- Progressive nerve weakness develops
- There is significant nerve compression
- Emergency symptoms such as bowel or bladder dysfunction occur
Recovery and Living With Sciatica
Most individuals recover well with appropriate care. Recovery involves:
- Gradual return to normal activities
- Strengthening back and core muscles
- Avoiding prolonged sitting
- Maintaining correct posture
Consistency in rehabilitation and lifestyle changes plays a key role in long-term relief.
Preventing Sciatica
While not all cases can be prevented, the risk can be reduced by:
- Maintaining good posture
- Regular physical activity
- Proper lifting techniques
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Taking breaks during prolonged sitting