Sciatica is defined as radiating pain and numbness in the lower back, buttock and hip to the thigh and leg. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center sciatica is a description of symptoms and not a single condition. Symptoms may result because of pressure on one or more of the lumbar nerves that cause pain or numbness all along the sciatica nerve. The sciatic nerve travels from the spine through the pelvis and deep in the buttocks down each leg. It is the widest and longest nerve in the body. Conditions that can cause pressure on the sciatic nerve include disc herniation (bulging), spinal stenosis (narrowing), degenerative disc disease, muscle spasms, spinal arthritis, osteoporosis, tumors or other abnormalities of the vertebral column. Direct damage to the nerves by lesions or inflammation may also cause sciatica. The onset of sciatica includes several characteristic symptoms.
Pain
Pressure, irritation or a pinched nerve may cause pain along the entire sciatica nerve. These symptoms may occur suddenly or gradually in the lower back, buttocks, hips, back of the thighs and legs. For many individuals this can cause severe pain and a debilitating loss of function and mobility. Pain due to sciatica can vary widely at different times and in different individuals, as outlined by the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sensations of pain include feelings of tingling, burning, a dull ache or a sharp pain. The pain sensations often worsen at night, after sneezing, coughing or laughing, after standing or sitting for long durations and by walking. Sciatica pain also often occurs in one leg or side and radiates to the buttocks and down the legs.
Muscle Weakness
Loss of sensation due to sciatica may range from a tingling sensation that occurs when your foot falls 'asleep,' to numbness or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, hips and the back of the thighs and legs. The sciatica nerve and its branches are responsible for motor and sensory function of the leg and foot. Therefore, muscles weakness, numbness and loss of nerve control and coordination due to sciatica nerve problems may cause difficulty in moving your leg or foot.
Lower Back Discomfort
Irritation of or damage to the sciatic nerve can also cause onset symptoms of pain, numbness and discomfort in the lower back. Back pain in sciatica often increases due to sitting or laying down for long periods as the nerve becomes more compressed. This pain may progress to the buttocks, hips and legs from the lower back.
