Pain that travels from the lower back into the buttock or leg may be associated with irritation of the nerves that contribute to the sciatic nerve. This pattern is commonly called sciatica.

Radiating nerve pain can also occur in other parts of the body when a nerve is irritated or compressed. Symptoms vary depending on which nerve is involved and what is causing the irritation.

What Causes Sciatica?

Possible causes include:

• Herniated discs: Disc material may irritate or compress a nearby nerve root.

• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of spaces around the spinal nerves may contribute to symptoms.

• Degenerative spinal changes: Changes in discs and joints may affect nearby nerve structures.

• Spondylolisthesis: A vertebra may shift relative to another, potentially narrowing nerve passageways.

• Other sources of nerve irritation: A clinical evaluation may be needed to distinguish spinal causes from conditions affecting other structures.

Common Symptoms

Sciatica and radiating nerve pain may cause:

• Pain traveling from the lower back or buttock into the leg

• Burning, shooting, or electric-like sensations

• Tingling or numbness

• Symptoms that worsen with certain movements or positions

• Weakness in the affected leg or foot in some cases

Not all back or leg pain is sciatica. The location and pattern of symptoms can help guide evaluation.

How Is Nerve Pain Evaluated?

Evaluation may include a discussion of symptom patterns, a physical and neurological examination, and a review of relevant medical history. Imaging or additional testing may be recommended when clinically indicated.

The goal is to determine whether the symptoms are consistent with nerve irritation and identify the underlying cause.

Treatment Options

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Conservative care and activity guidance

• Epidural steroid injections for selected cases of spinal nerve irritation

• Selective nerve root injections when appropriate

• Other targeted procedures based on the source of symptoms

• Additional evaluation or specialist care when needed

Treatment recommendations are individualized. An injection may reduce symptoms for some patients, but it does not correct every underlying cause of nerve pain.