Sciatica overview
Pain that travels along the sciatic nerve
Sciatica is a non-medical term that refers to low back pain with radiation of the pain along the course of the sciatic nerve. It may be caused by true ‘radicular pain’ (see also cervical radiculopathy and lumbar radiculopathy) where pain extends from the top of the affected leg along the sciatic nerve, which is at the back of the leg. In some cases, sciatica can also affect the calf muscle and the foot.
It may also be caused by pain arising from other structures in or near the spine. In other words, it could be referred pain.
Radicular pain, i.e. pain along the course of a nerve root due to various causes, must be distinguished from radiculopathy, where there is overt loss of function of a given nerve root.
Sciatica risk factors
Factors that may increase your risk
There are a number of recognised risk factors for developing sciatica.
- Older age
- Overweight/obesity
- Work-related factors
- Diabetes
Sciatica tests and diagnosis
How the cause of sciatic pain is assessed
The first step in diagnosing sciatica is a full medical examination which generally involves tests of muscle strength and reflexes, and a review of where the pain occurs and which movements and postures cause pain.
In some cases, further tests may be recommended which may include:
- Imaging tests, including X-rays, CT or MRI scans, although these should only be ordered if there is a sound medical reason to do so.
- Electromyography (‘EMG’) which tests muscle function and indicates whether the pain is caused by nerves or muscles.
Ready to take the next step?
Comprehensive pain assessments- Individual treatment planning
- Medication review and optimisation
