You feel a sharp, electric shock shooting down your buttock, thigh, and maybe even to your big toe.

Your leg looks fine. But the pain is real.

This is Sciatica. It is not a disease itself, but a symptom of a problem in your lower back.

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The Sciatic Nerve

The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in your body. It starts in your lower spine and runs all the way down to your feet.

If anything pinches this nerve at the root (in the spine), you feel pain anywhere along its path.

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Common Causes

1. Herniated Disc (Most Common)

The jelly from a spinal disc leaks out and presses on the nerve root.

2. Spinal Stenosis

As we age, the spinal canal narrows due to bone spurs and thick ligaments, choking the nerves. This causes pain when walking (Claudication).

3. Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis muscle (in the buttock) gets tight and squeezes the nerve. This is "fake sciatica" because the spine is fine.

4. Spondylolisthesis

One vertebra slips forward over another, stretching the nerve.

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Symptoms Checklist

• Pain on one side of the buttock or leg.
• Burning, tingling, or numbness.
• Pain worsens when sitting, coughing, or sneezing.
• Weakness in the foot (can't lift toes).

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How to Treat It

• Nerve Gliding Exercises: Special stretches to mobilize the nerve.
• Posture Correction: Avoid slouching.
• Medication: Nerve pain pills (Gabapentin/Pregabalin) work better than standard painkillers.

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Takeaway

Don't just treat the leg pain. Treat the back.

Identifying the exact pinch point (MRI scan) is the key to fixing it. 👉 Book a Spine Evaluation.