Sciatica is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, characterized by pain that radiates down the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg.

There are various causes of sciatica, including disc herniation, spinal stenosis, trauma, tumors, and even pregnancy. Knowing the symptoms of sciatica can help you identify the condition early and take steps towards alleviating the pain. Here’s everything you need to know about sciatica symptoms:.

Sharp pain in the lower back

The first and most common symptom of sciatica is a sharp and shooting pain in the lower back that can extend down to the legs. The pain is often intense and may be felt in both legs, though it usually affects only one leg at a time.

The lower back pain may be aggravated by standing or sitting for long periods, and may be relieved by lying down.

Numbness or tingling in the legs and feet

In addition to the sharp pain in the lower back, sciatica can cause numbness or tingling sensations in the affected leg or foot. You may feel like your leg or foot has “fallen asleep,” or you may experience a pins-and-needles sensation.

The numbness or tingling may be constant or intermittent and may worsen when you sit or stand for extended periods.

Weakness or difficulty moving the leg or foot

As sciatica progresses, you may experience weakness or difficulty moving the affected leg or foot.

You may find it challenging to walk, stand, or sit for extended periods, and you may find that your leg or foot feels heavy or “dead.” The weakness or difficulty moving the leg or foot may be due to nerve compression or inflammation.

Pain in the buttocks

Sciatica can also cause pain in the buttocks, which may feel sharp, burning, or achy. The pain may be felt on one side of the buttocks or may be felt in both buttocks, and may be relieved by lying down or changing positions.

Pain that worsens with activity

Sciatica pain often worsens with activity, such as walking, standing, or sitting for extended periods. The pain may also worsen when you sneeze or cough, or when you change positions suddenly.

In severe cases, the pain may be so intense that it prevents you from performing your daily activities.

Burning or electric shock-like sensations

Some people with sciatica may experience burning or electric shock-like sensations in the affected leg or foot. These sensations are often described as a shooting pain that travels down the leg or foot and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling.

Difficulty standing up or sitting down

As the symptoms of sciatica progress, you may find it challenging to stand up or sit down. You may experience pain or difficulty moving from a seated to a standing position, or from a standing to a seated position.

This can make performing daily activities, such as getting in and out of a car, difficult and painful.

Pain that worsens while sleeping

Sciatica pain can also worsen while sleeping, particularly if you sleep on your affected side. This can make it challenging to get a good night’s sleep, leading to fatigue and increased pain levels during the day.

Loss of bladder or bowel control

In rare cases, sciatica can cause loss of bladder or bowel control. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention as it may be a sign of cauda equina syndrome, a condition that can cause permanent nerve damage if left untreated.

Conclusion

Sciatica is a condition that can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. Knowing the symptoms of sciatica is essential for identifying the condition early and taking steps towards alleviating the pain.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan.