Sciatica

Sciatica results from sciatic nerve compression, leading to pain that radiates down the leg from the base of the spine through the hips and buttocks. Sciatica can be caused by a bone spur, osteoarthritis, a herniated disc, or spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing in the spinal column that may compress the nerve. Other causes of sciatica include spinal tumors, traumatic injuries, and some rare neurological conditions.

Symptoms typically include:

• Pain—usually a sharp, shooting pain running from the hip down the leg—or a burning sensation.

• Numbness or tingling in the hip or the back of the buttocks or thigh. Some people describe this as a “pins-and-needles” sensation.

• Weakness that interferes with lifting your feet. Your leg or foot may feel heavy.

• Sudden buckling of the leg due to severe pain or numbness.