Sciatica describes pain related to irritation of a lumbar nerve root. It is often felt in the buttock, thigh, calf or foot, and may come with pins and needles, numbness or weakness.

Not every leg pain is sciatica. Hip problems, hamstring tendinopathy, sacroiliac joint pain and referred pain from the back can overlap. A careful history and examination help work out the most likely source.

What sciatica can feel like

Sciatica is often sharper, more electric or more travelling than ordinary back pain. It may worsen with coughing, sneezing, sitting or bending. Some people feel pain more in the leg than in the back.

Pins and needles can occur when a nerve is irritated. Numbness suggests altered nerve signalling. Weakness matters most, especially if it is new or worsening.

When it is urgent

Seek urgent medical care if sciatica is associated with new bladder or bowel problems, numbness around the saddle area, progressive leg weakness, or severe symptoms in both legs.

These symptoms are uncommon but important. They should not be watched at home.

Do you need an MRI?

An MRI can be useful when symptoms are severe, progressive, persistent or when treatment decisions depend on the result. It is not always needed immediately, because many disc-related sciatica episodes improve over time.

The scan should answer a clinical question, not simply “have a look”. Many people have disc changes on MRI that are not causing symptoms.

What treatment usually involves

Management often includes staying as active as symptoms allow, short-term pain control, physiotherapy and gradual return to normal activity. Some people may benefit from image-guided injections or specialist referral depending on the pattern and severity.

You can read more on our sciatica page.

The bottom line

Sciatica can be frightening, but many cases improve without surgery. The key is identifying the minority of cases that need urgent review and matching treatment to the actual nerve pattern.