Sciatica pain is located along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of the thigh and calf, sometimes extending to the foot and toes. The pain usually affects only one side of the body and can vary from a mild ache to sharp, burning, or electric shock-like sensations
. Specifically, the pain often starts in the lower back or buttock and radiates down the back of the leg. It may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the leg or foot. The affected areas include the back of the thigh, the outer and back part of the lower leg, and the sole of the foot
. The pain can worsen with activities such as coughing, sneezing, or sitting for long periods. Sciatica results from pressure or injury to the sciatic nerve roots in the lumbar spine, commonly due to a herniated disc or bone overgrowth pressing on the nerve
. In summary, sciatica pain is primarily felt:
- In the lower back
- Through the buttock
- Down the back of the thigh and calf
- Sometimes extending to the foot and toes
Usually, it affects one side of the body and follows the nerve pathway from the lower spine down the leg
