Sciatica (sciatica) describes pain in the buttock that can radiate into the thigh, calf and foot (see image above with the sciatic nerve). There may also be lower back pain, tingling, loss of sensation, or loss of strength in the leg and/or foot.

Sciatica is typically caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve or its roots.

Irritation of the sciatic nerve can come from different compressions. It is very often caused by a protrusion of the intervertebral disc (called protrusion) or by a herniated disc. It can also come from compression of the nerve through certain muscles such as the piriformis (one of the gluteal muscles). Irritation of the sacroiliac joint in the pelvis can also mimic these types of symptoms.