# What is sciatica and what are its main symptoms? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-sciatica-main-symptoms Language: en Category: orthopedics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:53.000Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:53.000Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-is-sciatica-main-symptoms Sciatica is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue affecting the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. This nerve controls the muscles of the back of the knee and lower leg, and provides sensation to the back of the thigh, part of the lower leg, and the sole of the foot [\[2\]](). When you have sciatica, you experience pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. This pain typically begins in the lower back and can extend down the leg, reaching the calf, foot, or even the toes [\[2\]](). Sciatica often affects only one side of the body [\[2\]](). ## Common Causes of Sciatica There are many causes that can lead to sciatica, most notably: - **Herniated (slipped) disc:** Occurs when part of the disc between the vertebrae protrudes and compresses the sciatic nerve [\[2\]](). - **Spinal stenosis:** A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerves, including the sciatic nerve [\[2\]](). - **Spinal injuries:** Such as pelvic fractures [\[2\]](). - **Piriformis syndrome:** A rare condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle in the buttocks compresses the sciatic nerve, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the buttocks, as well as pain when sitting for long periods, climbing stairs, walking, or running [\[1\]](). In many cases, a clear cause for sciatica may not be found [\[2\]](). ## When Should You See a Doctor? Although sciatica may sometimes resolve on its own [\[2\]](), there are some "red flag" signs that require immediate medical attention: - Inability to control urination or bowel movements, or difficulty urinating or defecating [\[3\]](). - Difficulty walking and loss of balance [\[3\]](). - Severe back pain in children [\[3\]](). - Fever [\[3\]](). - A history of cancer or other signs of cancer [\[3\]](). - A recent fall or serious injury [\[3\]](). - Very severe back pain that is not relieved by pain medication [\[3\]](). - Worsening numbness or weakness in the leg [\[3\]](). These symptoms may indicate a more serious problem requiring urgent medical evaluation. In the absence of these warning signs, a doctor may recommend waiting before performing tests such as an MRI, as most back and neck pain improves on its own over time [\[3\]](). For more information on when an MRI is necessary, you can visit [Sciatica: Leg Pain, Nerve Imaging, Surgery (Arabic)](). ## Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis of sciatica is based on symptoms and a physical examination. A doctor may use imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan to identify the underlying cause [\[2\]](). Treatment depends on the cause of the problem and may include exercise, medication, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary [\[2\]](). It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your condition, as effective treatment relies on an accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause of sciatica. ## Medical references - [Sciatica]() - [Piriformis syndrome]() - [MRI and low back pain]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-sciatica-main-symptoms#answer