Sciatica is a condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. This nerve runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. When pressure is placed on it, individuals may feel sharp, burning, or shooting pain that follows the nerve’s pathway. Along with pain, symptoms can also include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot, depending on how the nerve is affected. These sensations often occur on one side of the body, though their intensity can range from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain.
The hallmark of sciatica is that it radiates beyond the back and into the leg, setting it apart from more localized back pain. Everyday movements like sitting, standing for long periods, or even coughing can sometimes worsen the discomfort. Sciatica itself is not a medical condition but rather a sign of an underlying issue, such as a herniated disc, spinal narrowing, or other factors that put pressure on the sciatic nerve. Understanding how this nerve functions and the role it plays in movement and sensation helps explain why irritation to it can cause such widespread and disruptive pain.
