Sciatica is not a condition itself—it’s a symptom of nerve irritation, specifically involving the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. It runs from your lower back down through your hips, buttocks, and legs.
When this nerve becomes compressed or inflamed, it can cause:
Sharp, shooting pain down one leg
Burning or tingling sensations
Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot
Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
Sciatica can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that affects daily life.
Understanding the cause is key to effective treatment. The most common causes include: