July 6, 2009

Font Size
A
A
A

Sciatica (cont.)

Sciatica Symptoms

The most common symptom from sciatica is pain. Most people describe a deep, severe pain that starts low on one side of the back and then shoots down the buttock and the leg with certain movements.

  • The pain is usually worse with both prolonged sitting and standing. Some people describe the worst pain when trying to stand from a low sitting position, such as standing up after sitting on a toilet seat.

  • In most people, the pain is made worse by sneezing, coughing, laughing, or a hard bowel movement. Bending backward can also make the pain worse.

  • You may also notice a weakness in your leg or foot, along with the pain. The weakness may become so bad you can't move your foot.


Next: When to Seek Medical Care »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Chronic Pain/Back Pain

Find tips and advances in treatment.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz

That Aching BackThat Aching Back
We’ve all had the occasional backache, but when does it deserve a trip to the doctor? See more WebMD Videos »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Lumbar (Intervertebral) Disk Disorders »

Lumbar disk disease is a frequent source of low back pain.

Read More on eMedicine »

Adult Skin Problems Slideshow

Search Medical Dictionary