When Back Pain Shoots Down the Leg
Sciatica isn’t just back pain. It’s nerve pain. It happens when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs, gets irritated or compressed.
Why Sciatica Feels Different from Regular Back Pain
Unlike muscle aches, sciatica pain follows a distinct path. It often starts in the lower back or buttock and travels down the thigh, sometimes reaching the calf or foot. That’s because the sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, carrying signals between the spine and the legs.
What Usually Causes Sciatica
Sciatica is usually a symptom of another problem in the spine, such as:
- Slipped (herniated) disc – the most common cause, pressing on the nerve
- Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal squeezing the nerve
- Spondylolisthesis – a slipped vertebra shifting out of place
- Muscle spasm or injury – irritation of nearby nerves
- Trauma – accidents or falls affecting the lower spine
Symptoms That Point to Sciatica
Sciatica is more than just leg pain. Symptoms can include:
- Sharp, shooting pain from the lower back or buttock down one leg
- Tingling or “pins and needles” in the leg or foot
- Numbness in parts of the leg
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with coughing, sneezing, or sitting too long
How Doctors Diagnose Sciatica
Because sciatica is a symptom, the real task is to find its cause. A consultation may include:
- Physical examination: testing reflexes, strength, and walking ability
- Imaging tests: MRI or CT scans to look for disc or spine issues
- Nerve studies: in selected cases, to check how signals travel along the nerve
Treatment Options for Sciatica
Most cases improve with non-surgical care. Treatment may include:
- Medications: to manage pain and inflammation
- Physiotherapy: stretching and exercises to relieve nerve pressure
- Lifestyle adjustments: activity modification, posture correction
- Injections: targeted relief to calm inflammation
- Surgery: considered if pain is severe, persistent, or if there is significant nerve compression
Living with Sciatica
Sciatica can be frustrating, especially if sitting or standing makes it worse. Simple changes like alternating sitting and standing, using supportive seating, and staying active with low-impact exercise can help. But persistent pain or weakness should always be reviewed by a doctor.
Book a Consultation for Nerve-Related Back or Leg Pain
If you have pain running from your lower back down the leg, schedule a consultation at Mash Spine & Orthopaedics to identify the cause and explore treatment options.
