If you’ve ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that starts in your lower back and travels down your leg, you might have experienced sciatica. It’s not just a sore back — sciatica can affect how you move, sleep, and go about your day.
What is sciatic pain?
Sciatic pain, or sciatica, occurs when the sciatic nerve — the longest and widest nerve in your body — becomes irritated or compressed. This nerve runs from your lower back through your hips, buttocks, and down both legs. When it’s inflamed or pinched, the result can be pain, numbness, or even muscle weakness along the nerve pathway.
Common causes of sciatica:
- Herniated disc (also called a slipped or bulging disc) pressing on the nerve
- Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal
- Degenerative disc disease, often age-related
- Injury or trauma to the spine or lower back
- Pregnancy, due to extra pressure on the spine and pelvis
Should you be worried?
Most sciatic pain improves with time, gentle movement, and a few lifestyle adjustments. Stretching, staying active, and using heat or cold packs can help manage symptoms. However, if the pain sticks around, gets worse, or interferes with your ability to function, it’s time to speak to a healthcare professional.
Don’t ignore persistent pain — understanding the cause is the first step toward finding relief and avoiding complications later on.
👉 Next: Sciatic Pain Symptoms
Reviewed April 2025. Always consult a professional for individual guidance.
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