What causes sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is formed by nerve roots from the lower spine. Anything that presses on those roots can cause sciatica. The most common causes are a herniated disc, spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips forward on another.
Symptoms
- Sharp, burning or electric pain down the back or side of the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that is worse with sitting, coughing or sneezing
When is sciatica an emergency?
Seek care right away for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or rapidly worsening leg weakness. These can be signs of severe nerve compression that needs urgent treatment.
Treatment
Most sciatica improves within weeks with activity changes, medication and physical therapy. An epidural steroid injection can calm an inflamed nerve. When pain persists or weakness develops, surgery to relieve the pressure, such as a microdiscectomy or decompression, can be very effective.
Common questions
Is sciatica serious?
Usually it is painful but not dangerous, and most cases settle without surgery. It needs prompt attention when there is weakness, numbness in the groin, or changes in bladder or bowel control.
Should I see a surgeon for sciatica?
Consider a spine specialist if pain lasts more than six weeks despite treatment, keeps coming back, or comes with weakness or numbness.
This page is general information reviewed by Dr. Amos O. Dare and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation.