Sciatica

Key Points

Overview

Sciatica is pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down to your feet. This nerve irritation leads to symptoms primarily in the buttock and down the back of one leg, often including the foot and toes. It's commonly caused by a slipped disc, spinal narrowing (spinal stenosis), or a back injury. The pain can come on suddenly or gradually, and may worsen with movement, sneezing, or coughing. While sciatica usually gets better on its own within a few weeks or months, treatments include exercises, pain relief, and physiotherapy. In severe or persistent cases, injections or surgery might be considered.

Signs and Symptoms

• Sharp, burning pain down the back of one leg
• Tingling sensation (pins and needles)
• Numbness in the leg or foot
• Weakness in the affected leg
• Pain worse with movement, sneezing, or coughing

Things That Increase the Risk

• Slipped disc
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of spinal canal)
• Spondylolisthesis (spinal bone slips out of place)
• Back injury
• Older age
• Being overweight
• Smoking

Diagnosis

• Doctor's assessment of symptoms
• Physical examination
• Review of medical history

Treatment & Management

• Continuing normal activities as much as possible
• Regular exercises and stretches
• Applying heat packs to painful areas
• Over-the-counter painkillers (consult pharmacist)
• Physiotherapy (exercise advice, massage)
• Psychological support for pain management
• Radiofrequency denervation (for severe pain)
• Painkilling injections (e.g., epidural)
• Decompression surgery (for severe cases)

Prevention

• Staying active with regular exercise
• Using safe lifting techniques
• Maintaining good posture (sitting and standing)
• Using correct computer posture
• Losing excess weight
• Avoiding smoking

Related Diseases

• Slipped disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Lower back pain
• Radiculopathy

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Sciatica:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Sciatica: