Common Signs of Sciatic Nerve Pain pains so common and the pain can range from moderate to severe, not everyone who has this condition knows.
Pain caused by sciatica is different than the pain caused by other injuries or conditions. So, what are the signs of sciatic nerve pain? Read on to find out.
What Does Sciatica Pain Feel Like?
One of the signs of sciatic nerve pain is pain itself, but what does this specific pain feel like? Depending on the cause of sciatica, the pain will be different.
Some people describe it as jolts of pain that are sharp and shooting. Others say it feels like a burning, stabbing, or electric sensation.
The pain can be constant or might come and go. You’ll often experience worse pain if you stand or sit for long periods throughout the day.
A sudden body movement like standing, twisting, coughing, or sneezing can make the pain worse as well.
Signs of Sciatic Nerve Pain
Along with the feelings of pain listed above, the common signs of sciatic nerve pain include the following symptoms:
- Lower back, buttock, and leg pain
- Numbness or weakness in the lower back, buttock, leg, or feet
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Loss of movement
- Pins and needles feeling in the legs, toes, or feet
- Loss of bladder and bowel control
The pain that someone feels in these areas of the body might be moderate to severe.
Sciatica Risk Factors
Some people are at greater risk of experiencing sciatic pain than others. However, normal aging and wearing down the bone tissue in the spine can lead to sciatica.
Those who have been previously injured or are currently going through a lower back or spine injury are at risk of sciatica. Someone overweight could put a lot of tension on their spine causing sciatic pain.
A job that requires you to do heavy lifting can have an impact on your lower back and cause sciatica. If you work out without focusing on the right posture, you might experience this pain as well.
Smoking, diabetes, and osteoarthritis are other problems that can cause injury to your nerves and lead to sciatic pain.
Treating Sciatica
Sciatic nerve pain treatment is not a one size fits all plan. Depending on the cause and seriousness of your pain, some treatments might work better for you than others.
In most cases, sciatica goes away over time with at-home treatments like:
- Applying hot or cold packs
- Taking over-the-counter medicines
- Performing certain stretches
However, if a self-care treatment does not work, it is essential to see your healthcare provider for improvement.
Being Diagnosed With Sciatica
The most common signs of sciatic nerve pain are numbness and weakness in the buttocks, lower back, and leg. If you have been diagnosed with sciatica or suspect it’s the cause of your pain, self-care treatments may work.
Most people get better without surgery and can fully recover. If you continue to experience pain despite your best efforts, visit your primary care doctor.
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