Symptoms of Sciatica Nerve Pain

The sciatic nerve extends from nerve roots located in the lumbar region of the spinal cord (lower back) and continues through the buttocks and upper thigh. Sciatica is the term for a set of symptoms resulting from injury or inflammation to the sciatic nerve. Common causes for this damage are herniated disc, direct trauma to the nerve and pelvic injuries. Symptoms of sciatica are generally localized and easy to detect with prompt medical attention.

Lower Back Pain

• The most common symptom of sciatica is deep pain in the lower back, sometimes limited to one side of the body.

Cramping or Burning

• Sporadic cramping and burning sensations in the upper thigh may also occur with sciatic nerve damage.

Tingling Sensations

• Sciatica can cause deep tingling or a "pins and needles" sensation in the legs and buttocks.

Weakness and Numbness

• Weakness and numbness in the legs are also symptoms of sciatica, making movement difficult or impossible in severe cases.

Foot and Calf

• In less common cases, sciatica can also cause sensation changes in the sole of the foot and the calf.

Clinical Trial Results

• Sciatica is a common condition but a clinical pain treatment trial in 2006 reported no truly effective treatments.