1. What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. It usually affects only one side of the body. The pain can range from mild to severe and may feel like burning, shooting, or electric-like discomfort.

2. Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica happens when something puts pressure on or irritates the sciatic nerve. Common causes include:

• Herniated disc – when a disc in the spine slips or ruptures

• Bone spurs – extra bone growth pressing on nerves

• Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal

• Degenerative disc disease – wear and tear of spinal discs

• Injury or trauma – such as falls or accidents

• Less common causes – tumors, infections, or other spinal conditions

3. Symptoms

Sciatica symptoms can vary but often include:

• Sharp, shooting pain starting in the lower back or buttock and radiating down the leg

• Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing

• Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” in the leg or foot

• Muscle weakness in the leg or foot

• Difficulty walking or standing due to pain

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe weakness in the legs

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Pain after major trauma or injury

4. Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider may use several steps to diagnose sciatica:

• Medical history – discussing symptoms, activities, and health background

• Physical exam – checking posture, movement, reflexes, and leg strength

• Imaging tests (if needed):

  • X-rays

  • MRI or CT scans

• Nerve studies – such as electromyography (EMG) if nerve damage is suspected

5. Treatments

Most cases of sciatica improve within a few weeks with non-surgical treatment. Options include:

Self-care and lifestyle:

• Gentle movement and stretching (avoid long bed rest)

• Heat or cold packs for pain relief

• Practicing good posture and ergonomics

Medications:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)

• Prescription medications for more severe pain

Physical therapy:

• Exercises to strengthen the back and core

• Stretches to improve flexibility and reduce nerve pressure

• Training in safe movement and posture

Other treatments:

• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the nerve

• Surgery (rare, for cases with severe nerve compression, ongoing weakness, or when other treatments don’t help)

• For severe cases of sciatica caused by herniated discs or spinal stenosis, minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. MISS typically involves smaller incisions, less muscle damage, and faster return to daily activities.