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Sciatica
Pain radiating along the sciatic nerve from the lower back down the leg.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
When to seek help
Seek medical help right away if you have severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, chest pain, or any symptom that feels life-threatening. This community is for peer support and education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
Sciatica is a symptom of a problem with the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. It controls muscles in the back of your knee and lower leg and provides feeling to the back of your thigh, part of your lower leg, and the sole of your foot. When you have sciatica, you have pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. It can start in the lower back and extend down your leg to your calf, foot, or even your toes. It's usually on only one side of your body. Causes of sciatica include: A ruptured intervertebral disk Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerve, called spinal stenosis An injury such as a pelvic fracture. In many cases no cause can be found. Sometimes sciatica…
Resources
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Talk with people who understand, share what helps, and find support from others living with sciatica. Private, moderated, and free.
Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.