what is sciatica pain in leg

Sciatica pain in the leg is caused by irritation, inflammation, pinching, or compression of one or more nerves that run down the lower back and into the legs. The sciatic nerve travels from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg, and sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve. The pain can vary from a mild ache to a sharp, burning pain, and it can be almost anywhere along the nerve pathway. Its especially likely to follow a path from the low back to the buttock and the back of a thigh and calf. Sciatica most often occurs when a herniated disk or an overgrowth of bone puts pressure on part of the nerve, causing inflammation, pain, and often some numbness in the affected leg. Although the pain associated with sciatica can be severe, most cases clear up with treatment in a few weeks. If you experience moderate or worse pain, or if you experience any tingling, pins-and-needles sensations or numbness, you should talk to your healthcare provider. You should get emergency medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as bowel or bladder changes.