Sciatica is not a diagnosis in itself but a description of nerve pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often by a herniated (slipped) disc, spinal narrowing, or muscle pressure. It typically causes a sharp, burning, or shooting pain running from the lower back or buttock down the back of one leg, sometimes as far as the foot. Tingling, pins and needles, or numbness in the leg or foot are common.
Most sciatica improves within 4 to 6 weeks with gentle activity, exercises, and pain relief. Staying mobile generally helps more than bed rest. A doctor or physiotherapist can advise on exercises and whether further assessment is needed.
Seek urgent medical care if you develop weakness in the leg or foot, numbness around the groin or genitals, loss of bladder or bowel control, or pain in both legs, as these can indicate a serious nerve problem (cauda equina syndrome) requiring emergency treatment. Also see a doctor if pain is severe, worsening, or not improving after several weeks.