Sciatica -- or pain along your sciatic nerve -- is technically not a disorder but a symptom, resulting from the sciatic nerve being pinched or irritated. Causes include a herniated disk; spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spine; injury; and spinal tumors. Piriformis syndrome, which involves spasms of the muscle connecting your spine to your thighbones, may also cause sciatica. Spine-Health states that people between 30 and 50 are most often affected. Sciatica usually resolves on its own within a few months, although some sciatica sufferers may require surgery.
Pain
Pain that runs from your back to your buttock and down your leg is a primary symptom of sciatica. It may range in severity from mildly annoying to disabling, and it may take the form of a dull ache, a sharp and shooting pain, a burning feeling or a jolting sensation akin to an electric shock. Spine-Health notes that the pain usually strikes one side of your buttock or one leg, and it worsens with coughing or sneezing. Prolonged sitting may trigger or worsen sciatica pain. According to MayoClinic.com, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate discomfort, or you may use an ice pack for 20 minutes several times a day. You may also try alternating cold and hot packs.
Numbness and Weakness
Sciatica can cause muscle weakness and numbness, often in your leg or foot. The numbness and weakness may be so pronounced that you have difficulty moving your leg or foot. Symptoms may be mixed; MedlinePlus says you may have sharp pain in one part of your leg or hip, with numbness in other parts. In other instances, your whole leg may feel weak.
Tingling
Tingling, prickling or a feeling of "pins and needles" is another symptom of sciatica. You may feel this in your toes or in other parts of your feet, or it may travel up and down your legs.
Dangerous Symptoms
Some sciatica-like symptoms may indicate a serious problem. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a rare but serious condition called cauda equina syndrome results when nerves to the pelvic organs are compressed and paralyzed. If you experience bladder or bowel incontinence and severe, progressive loss of sensation or altered sensation in your buttocks, thighs, legs or feet, seek emergency medical assistance. Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency that may require surgery.
