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Sciatica
Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back down through the buttock and leg along the sciatic nerve, usually caused by pressure on the nerve. Most cases settle within weeks.
Causes & risk factors
- A slipped (herniated) disc pressing on the nerve
- Narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
- Wear-and-tear changes in the spine
- Muscle spasm in the buttock
- Rarely, injury or a growth pressing on the nerve
Common symptoms
- Lower back pain
- Pain shooting down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Leg weakness
- Pain worse on sitting, coughing or sneezing
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis (history and exam)
- MRI spine (if severe or persistent)
- X-ray
Treatment & management
- Staying gently active — prolonged bed rest is not helpful
- Simple pain relief and, sometimes, nerve-pain medicine
- Physiotherapy and specific exercises
- Steroid injections in some cases
- Surgery only if symptoms are severe or persistent
When to see a doctor urgently
- Numbness around the back passage or genitals, or new bladder or bowel problems — call your local emergency number now (possible cauda equina)
- Weakness in the leg that is worsening
- Sciatica with fever, unexplained weight loss or after a serious injury
- Pain that is severe or not improving after a few weeks
Frequently asked questions
How long does sciatica last?
Most cases improve within 4 to 6 weeks with gentle activity and simple measures. Staying mobile usually helps recovery more than resting in bed.
When is sciatica an emergency?
Rarely, pressure on the lowest nerves causes numbness around the back passage or loss of bladder or bowel control. This is an emergency — call your local emergency number immediately.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.