Sciatica is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom of an underlying spinal issue—typically involving compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the human body. This nerve runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg.
As a leading Neurosurgeon and Spine Specialist in the UAE, Dr. Arun Rajeswaran, help patients identify and manage sciatica using evidence-based, minimally invasive techniques. Understanding the symptoms of sciatica is the first step toward effective diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica usually results from pressure on the sciatic nerve caused by:
- Herniated or slipped disc in the lower spine
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Spondylolisthesis
- Trauma or injury to the spine
- Piriformis syndrome (muscle compressing the sciatic nerve)
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the severity of the underlying cause. While some people experience occasional discomfort, others may suffer from chronic, debilitating pain.
Here are the key symptoms to watch for:
1. Lower Back Pain
Although the term “sciatica” is often associated with leg pain, many patients first experience pain in the lower back. This pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation, especially during movements like bending, twisting, or sitting for long periods.
2. Radiating Leg Pain
One of the hallmark symptoms of sciatica is radiating pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and travels down the back of the leg, often reaching the calf or foot. This pain typically affects one side of the body, though in rare cases, it can be bilateral.
Patients describe the pain as:
- Sharp or burning
- Electric shock-like
- Throbbing or searing
3. Numbness or Tingling Sensations
Sciatica often causes numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling along the nerve pathway. These sensations may be intermittent or constant, and they can affect the buttock, thigh, calf, or foot.
4. Muscle Weakness
As the sciatic nerve also controls certain muscles in the legs and feet, prolonged compression can lead to weakness, especially in:
- The calf muscles
- Foot dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upward)
- Toe movement
This can cause difficulty walking, standing, or lifting the foot, often referred to as “foot drop.”
5. Pain Worsens with Movement or Sitting
Sciatic pain tends to intensify with prolonged sitting, standing, or sudden movements like sneezing or coughing. Activities such as driving, climbing stairs, or lifting heavy objects can also worsen the symptoms.
6. Buttock Discomfort
Many sciatica patients report persistent buttock pain or pressure, which may feel like a dull ache or discomfort while sitting on hard surfaces. This pain may also extend to the hip area.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild cases of sciatica can resolve with rest and conservative treatment, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or worsening leg pain
- Persistent numbness or weakness
- Difficulty walking or controlling bowel/bladder function
- Sudden onset of symptoms after an injury
These may indicate a more serious spinal condition requiring immediate intervention.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Dr. Arun Rajeswaran’s Clinic
At my practice, we offer comprehensive evaluation through clinical examination, MRI, and nerve conduction studies to accurately diagnose the root cause of sciatica. Treatment options may include:
- Physiotherapy and spinal rehabilitation
- Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Minimally invasive spine surgery (for severe or persistent cases)
- Microscopic or endoscopic discectomy
Our goal is always to restore comfort, mobility, and long-term spinal health with least invasive options first.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing radiating leg pain, tingling, or weakness, don’t ignore the signs. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can prevent further nerve damage and improve your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Arun Rajeswaran, trusted Neurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon in UAE, and take the first step toward lasting relief from sciatica.
