Sciatica
Radiating pain along the sciatic nerve — from your lower back to your foot
ICD-10: M54.3 · lumbar condition
Sciatica is a symptom rather than a diagnosis — it refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the hip and down one leg. It most often occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed by a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. Most cases improve with conservative care within 4–12 weeks, though severe or persistent cases may need intervention.
10–40%
Sciatica affects an estimated 10–40% of people at some point in their lives, with a peak incidence between ages 40–50.
Konstantinou K et al., Spine Journal (2008)80–90%
Approximately 80–90% of sciatica cases resolve without surgery within 4–6 weeks of conservative management.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons85–90%
Microdiscectomy relieves leg pain in approximately 85–90% of appropriately selected sciatica patients.
North American Spine SocietySymptoms
- Sharp, shooting, or burning pain from the lower back down through the buttock and leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, prolonged standing, or coughing
- Numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg — difficulty moving the foot or calf
- Pain typically affecting only one side of the body
- Difficulty standing up straight or walking long distances
Causes & Risk Factors
- Lumbar disc herniation pressing on the sciatic nerve root (most common)
- Lumbar spinal stenosis compressing nerve roots in the canal
- Degenerative disc disease causing foraminal narrowing
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage) impinging on nerve roots
- Piriformis syndrome — sciatic nerve irritation by the piriformis muscle
- Pregnancy-related pelvic changes compressing the sciatic nerve
- Less commonly: tumors, blood clots, or infection near the nerve
Treatment Options
Conservative
- Physical therapy with targeted stretches and core strengthening
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants
- Epidural steroid injections for significant nerve inflammation
- Hot/cold therapy during flare-ups
- Keeping active (walking, swimming) rather than prolonged bed rest
- Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments
Surgical
- Microdiscectomy — removes the herniated disc fragment pressing on the nerve
- Laminectomy — decompresses nerve roots in stenosis-related sciatica
- Spinal fusion for cases with significant instability
When to see a spine specialist
See a spine specialist if sciatica does not improve within 4–6 weeks, if you develop leg weakness, or if you experience any changes in bladder or bowel function (seek emergency care immediately).
Specialists Who Treat Sciatica
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Search spine specialists →Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have sciatica or just back pain?
The key distinguishing feature of sciatica is that it radiates — the pain travels from the lower back or buttock down through the leg, often below the knee and into the foot. Pure back pain tends to stay in the back. Sciatica may also include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg.
What should I avoid doing with sciatica?
Avoid prolonged sitting (especially hunched forward), heavy lifting with poor form, high-impact activities during flare-ups, and positions that make the pain worse (often forward bending or straight-leg raises). Complete bed rest is actually counterproductive — gentle walking and movement help recovery.
How long does sciatica last?
Acute sciatica from a disc herniation often improves within 4–12 weeks as the herniated material is absorbed by the body. Chronic sciatica — lasting more than 3 months — is less likely to resolve on its own and benefits from specialist evaluation. The likelihood of needing surgery is roughly 10% overall.