Condition guide
Sciatica - Overview
Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc or other lower back issues.
Symptoms
- Sharp pain down the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
Causes & Risk Factors
- Herniated lumbar disc
- Spinal stenosis
- Piriformis syndrome
- Trauma
Diagnosis
- Clinical exam
- MRI or CT scan to identify nerve root compression
Effective Treatment Options
- Physical therapy
- Pain relief medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Surgery if severe
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes sciatica?
Mostly herniated discs or spinal nerve compression.
How is sciatica treated?
Treatment includes physical therapy, medications, and sometimes injections or surgery.
Explore related physiotherapy services
Learn about assessment, rehabilitation and consultation preparation in these treatment guides.