Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body.

Sciatica usually occurs when a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) or tight buttock muscles put pressure on part of the nerve. This can result in inflammation, pain and often some numbness in the affected leg.

Though the pain linked with sciatica can be severe, most cases resolve with non-operative treatments in a few weeks. People who have severe sciatica associated with significant leg weakness or bowel or bladder changes might require more invasive treatments.

Symptoms of sciatica

Pain that radiates from your lower (lumbar) spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg is the hallmark of sciatica. You might feel the discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway, but it’s especially likely to follow a path from your low back to your buttock and the back of your thigh and calf.

The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating pain. Sometimes it can feel like a jolt or electric shock. It can be worse when you cough or sneeze, and prolonged sitting can aggravate symptoms.

Some people also have numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot. You might have pain in one part of your leg and numbness in another part.

When to see a doctor:

Mild sciatica usually goes away over time. Consult your GP if the pain does subside in one week, is becoming increasingly severe or becomes progressively worse.

Go to A&E if:

• You have sudden, severe pain in your low back or leg and numbness or muscle weakness in your leg.
• The pain follows a violent injury such as a traffic accident.
• You have trouble controlling your bowels or bladder.