What are The Signs and Symptoms of Sciatica?
Patients suffering from sciatica often feel lower back pain that extend to the buttocks, hamstring, calf, and foot. In addition to pain, signs of sciatica may also include tingling and numbness. And it is not uncommon for these symptoms to be felt on just one side of the body.
Sciatica Symptoms
- Radiating pain worsened by sitting
- Sharp constant pain on one side of the rear leg that can affect standing or walking
- Weakness or loss of motor function in the leg or foot
- Numbness or tingling down one leg
The severity of sciatica symptoms vary from person to person and worsen with time. Some people can become physically disabled by sciatica symptoms, while others may only be intermittently bothered and find that the beginning signs of sciatica are only minor and more of a nuisance than anything. Less severe sciatica symptoms, however, can get worse and sciatica treatment should be sought with the onset of sciatic nerve pain.
The symptoms of sciatica can be felt in different ways depending on the level of the spine at which the sciatic nerve is affected. Damage at different levels produces different types of pain in varying parts of the body.
Generally, mild to moderate sciatica can be eliminated with conservative treatments. Mild sciatica may even heal on its own. If your pain lasts for a week or more, however, it is best to call your doctor.
Seek immediate medical care if you experience sudden, severe pain that follows an injury or traumatic event, or if you have trouble controlling your bowels or bladder.
