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Sciatica
Moderate
Sciatica describes pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, usually from the lower back through the buttock and into the leg. It is a symptom rather than a disease itself and may result from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or another condition affecting the nerve.
Body System
Spine & Back
When to Seek Medical Attention
Sciatica often improves with conservative treatment but should be medically assessed when symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening. Seek prompt care for increasing weakness or numbness, severe uncontrolled pain, fever with back pain, or symptoms following significant trauma. Emergency evaluation is needed for new loss of bladder or bowel control or rapidly progressive neurological problems.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Sciatica describes pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, usually from the lower back through the buttock and into the leg. It is a symptom rather than a disease itself and may result from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or another condition affecting the nerve.
Symptoms 3
Brittle Nails
Difficulty Walking
Numbness
Causes 1
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve or one of its roots is irritated, compressed, or injured. Common causes include a herniated disc and narrowing of the spinal canal from spinal stenosis. Less common causes include piriformis syndrome, spinal injury, vertebral displacement, or a tumor affecting structures near the nerve.
Obesity
Risk Factors
Risk of sciatica is influenced by conditions that affect the lower spine or sciatic nerve. Age-related spinal changes, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, prolonged sitting, physically demanding work, heavy lifting, and activities involving repeated bending or twisting may increase risk. Some spinal injuries or disorders can also contribute.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Sciatica is usually diagnosed from the pattern of pain and symptoms together with a physical and neurological examination. The clinician may check muscle strength, sensation, reflexes, walking, and pain produced by leg movement. Imaging such as MRI or X-ray is generally considered when symptoms are severe, persistent, recurrent, or when another serious cause is suspected.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Sciatica cannot always be prevented because it may result from age-related spinal changes or other conditions
Maintaining regular physical activity, strengthening the core and back, using proper lifting techniques, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting may reduce strain on the spine
Work activities involving repeated bending, twisting, or heavy lifting should be performed with appropriate technique
Prevention Guidance
Sciatica cannot always be prevented because it may result from age-related spinal changes or other conditions. Maintaining regular physical activity, strengthening the core and back, using proper lifting techniques, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting may reduce strain on the spine. Work activities involving repeated bending, twisting, or heavy lifting should be performed with appropriate technique.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Omega-3 Foods
May reduce inflammation
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants
Vegetables
Support nerve health
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
May increase inflammation
Excess Sugar
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve.
Herniated discs and spinal disorders are common causes.
Pain radiating down the leg, numbness, and tingling.
Appropriate exercises may improve symptoms.
Through examination and imaging when required.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.