Is It Sciatica or Just Back Pain?
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention — but not all back pain is the same.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body. It starts in your lower back, runs through your hips and buttocks, and continues down each leg. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, it causes a distinct type of radiating pain.
Symptoms of Sciatica
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain in the lower back, buttocks, or down the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, standing, or sneezing
- Typically affects one side of the body
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is not a condition — it's a symptom of an underlying problem. Common causes include:
1. Herniated or Bulging Disc
A disc pressing on the sciatic nerve is the most frequent cause. This happens when the cushion between your vertebrae bulges or ruptures.
2. Spinal Stenosis
A narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the nerves.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease
Age-related changes can reduce space and flexibility in the spine.
4. Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle in the buttocks can compress the sciatic nerve if inflamed.
5. Spondylolisthesis
A vertebra slips out of place, pinching the nerve.
How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?
An orthopedic or spine specialist will:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Perform a physical exam (check strength, reflexes, leg raise test)
- Order imaging (MRI, CT scan, or X-rays) to identify the root cause
Treatment Options for Sciatica
Most cases improve without surgery. Initial treatment includes:
Conservative Treatment:
- Physical therapy to strengthen core and improve flexibility
- NSAIDs or muscle relaxers to reduce inflammation
- Heat/ice therapy to relieve pain and swelling
- Steroid injections to reduce nerve irritation
Surgical Treatment (If Needed):
If symptoms are severe or don’t improve within 6–12 weeks:
- Microdiscectomy to remove part of a herniated disc
- Laminectomy to relieve pressure by removing part of the vertebra
How to Prevent Sciatica from Coming Back
- Practice good posture when sitting and lifting
- Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight
- Use proper ergonomics at work
- Stretch daily, especially hamstrings and hips
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
You should see a specialist if:
- Pain lasts longer than a week or two
- You experience numbness or tingling in the leg
- There's weakness in your foot or difficulty walking
- Symptoms worsen or don’t improve with home care
Get Back to Moving Pain-Free
Sciatica doesn’t have to sideline your life. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can reduce pain and return to normal activity quickly.
👉 Use OrthoCheck to understand your symptoms and connect with a spine or orthopedic specialist today.
Back pain might be common — but it doesn’t have to be your normal. Relief is possible.
