Health Library

What Is Sciatica?

Speed

Simple Answer

Sciatica is a symptom of a problem with the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body. It can cause pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. The pain often starts in the lower back and can travel down one leg to the calf, foot, or toes. It is usually felt on only one side of the body.

What It Means

This matters because sciatica can be a sign of another problem, such as a ruptured disk, spinal stenosis, or an injury like a pelvic fracture. In many cases, no cause is found. Sometimes it goes away on its own, and treatment depends on the cause.

When to Contact a Doctor

Talk to a doctor if you have sciatica symptoms and need help finding the cause or deciding on treatment. A doctor can check for problems like a herniated disk or spinal stenosis.

A herniated disk is a disk in the spine that has ruptured and can irritate nearby nerves. Treatment for sciatica may include exercises, medicines, or surgery, depending on the cause.

Sources

This information is based on these free U.S. government medical sources:

You don't have to figure this out alone — for $19, a real doctor will personally check this answer and reply just for you.

Was this helpful?

Save & Share

Create a private link to this answer to save it or send it to a family member.

Email this answer

Get a copy of this in your inbox.

Email me occasional health tips (optional)

Ask a Doctor

Want a licensed physician to review your question? Choose an option below and a physician will follow up. This is separate from the free information above.

Have your own question?

This service provides general medical information and education. It does not diagnose medical conditions or replace care from a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. If you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.