Sciatica (Lumbar Radiculopathy)

Sciatica pain is often referred to as a “pinched nerve” and can manifest as a sharp “shock” or as a dull aching or burning sensation. Its severity ranges from mild to debilitating. Even though sciatica originates from the lower back, pain may occur anywhere the sciatic nerve runs through, from the lower buttock along the back of the leg and down to the sole of the foot. In most cases, sciatica is limited to only one side.

Is pain the only symptom of sciatica?
While pain is the major concern when dealing with sciatica, problems with the sciatic nerve can also manifest with other signs and symptoms. Patients with sciatica may feel a variety of other sensations in the leg, including:

• Weakness
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Abnormal reflexes

These, in turn, may lead to clumsiness and difficulty walking. Bowel and/or urinary changes, such as incontinence, may accompany more serious forms of sciatica.

Unfortunately, in many cases of sciatica, the cause can’t be determined. But it can be treated.