Sciatica

Sciatica is pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of one leg.

It is a symptom rather than a diagnosis and usually results from a herniated lumbar disc or bone spur pressing on a nerve root, though spinal stenosis, piriformis muscle tightness and, rarely, tumors can also cause it. The pain is often sharp, burning or electric, may be accompanied by tingling, numbness or weakness in the leg or foot, and tends to worsen with sitting, coughing or sneezing. It typically affects one side.

Assessment includes a history of the pain's path and triggers, tests such as the straight-leg raise, and a check of leg strength, reflexes and sensation; MRI is used when symptoms are severe, persistent or accompanied by neurological loss. Most episodes improve within weeks. Cannabinoids have been studied for neuropathic and chronic back pain, and evidence specific to sciatica is limited.