Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain to travel from the lower back down into the buttocks, leg, or even the foot. For some people, it feels like a dull ache, while for others it can cause sharp, burning, or shooting pain that interferes with walking, sleeping, and everyday movement.
Although sciatica is often associated with back pain, the symptoms are actually caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica develops when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed in the lower spine. This is commonly caused by:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Facet joint inflammation
- Muscle irritation around the nerve
When pressure builds around the nerve roots in the lower back, inflammation develops and pain can travel along the path of the nerve into the leg.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the nerve irritation, but often include:
- Sharp or shooting pain down the leg
- Lower back pain
- Burning or tingling sensations
- Numbness in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg
- Pain that worsens when sitting or bending
Symptoms are usually felt on one side of the body and may range from mild discomfort to severe nerve pain.
How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed musculoskeletal assessment to understand your symptoms, movement, and nerve function.
Depending on the presentation, further assessment may include:
- Movement and neurological testing
- Ultrasound or imaging review
- Assessment of spinal mobility and posture
Accurate diagnosis is important because several lower back conditions can mimic sciatica symptoms.
Treatment Options for Sciatica
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. In many cases, conservative treatment is effective and may include:
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises
- Activity modification
- Mobility and strengthening work
- Pain management strategies
When inflammation around the nerves is persistent or severe, treatments such as sciatica shots or spinal injections may help reduce irritation and improve comfort.
These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication close to the affected nerves, helping reduce swelling and relieve pain more directly.
When Should You Seek Help?
You should consider getting assessed if:
- Pain is travelling down the leg
- Symptoms are worsening over time
- Sitting or walking is becoming difficult
- You are experiencing numbness or weakness
- Symptoms are not improving with rest
Early treatment can often help reduce irritation before symptoms become more persistent.
Need An Expert?
Sciatica can have a major impact on mobility, comfort, and quality of life, but effective treatment options are available. The key is identifying the underlying cause of the nerve irritation and creating a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we focus on helping patients reduce pain, improve movement, and return to daily life with greater confidence and comfort.