Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. This pain typically affects one side of the body and may feel like a burning sensation, shooting pain, or tingling that radiates through the leg.
Most sciatica cases are caused by pressure on the nerve roots in the lower spine—often from a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. These conditions can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the leg.
Although sciatica symptoms can range from mild to severe, they often worsen with prolonged sitting, sudden movements, or poor posture. Left untreated, chronic sciatica may lead to long‒term nerve damage or recurring flare‒ups that interfere with your daily life.