Also known as leg nerve pain, pinched nerve in the back.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back down the back of one leg along the sciatic nerve, usually because a bulging spinal disc is pressing on a nerve root. The shooting, burning or electric pain can be intense, but most cases improve within weeks to a few months without surgery.
Symptoms
Pain radiating from the buttock down the back of one leg
Burning, shooting or electric-shock quality
Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
Pain worse with coughing, sneezing or sitting
Weakness in the leg or foot in some cases
Causes & risk factors
Bulging or herniated spinal disc pressing on a nerve
Narrowing of the spinal canal with age
Heavy lifting with poor technique
Prolonged sitting and obesity
Treatment & self-care
Stay as active as the pain allows, use prescribed pain relief and avoid prolonged sitting; targeted physiotherapy exercises relieve nerve pressure and prevent recurrence. Most sciatica resolves without surgery, which is reserved for severe or persistent nerve compression. Avoid forceful unqualified manipulation of the spine.
See a doctor urgently if
Numbness around the genitals or trouble controlling urine or stool — emergency
Progressive leg weakness or foot drop
Pain in both legs
Severe pain not improving after several weeks
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Sciatica?
Early signs often include pain radiating from the buttock down the back of one leg, burning, shooting or electric-shock quality, tingling or numbness in the leg or foot. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Sciatica be treated?
Stay as active as the pain allows, use prescribed pain relief and avoid prolonged sitting; targeted physiotherapy exercises relieve nerve pressure and prevent recurrence. Most sciatica resolves without surgery, which is reserved for severe or persistent nerve compression. Avoid forceful unqualified manipulation of the spine.
When should I see a doctor about Sciatica?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: numbness around the genitals or trouble controlling urine or stool — emergency; progressive leg weakness or foot drop; pain in both legs; severe pain not improving after several weeks.