A common cause given for leg pain is muscle strain, and this may be attributed to standing for a long time, exercising incorrectly, or getting older. But sometimes, there may be something different going on. A pain that begins in the lower back and radiates down the buttock and to the leg, may indicate irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve, and is referred to as sciatica.

The largest nerve in the body is the sciatic nerve. It extends from the lower back through buttocks and down each leg. If a nerve in the lower back is compressed or inflamed, it may result in pain that radiates down this nerve.

Sciatica isn’t always typical leg pain. It can cause a sudden electric-like, burning or tearing sensation down the back of the thigh and sometimes into the calf or foot from the lower back or buttock.

Some people may also experience tingling, numbness or weakness in the affected leg. The pain can worsen after sitting for prolonged periods, or after coughing, sneezing or certain movements.

In some cases, the discomfort may be primarily experienced in the leg, and there may be very little discomfort in the back. This can be one explanation as to why people may confuse sciatica with leg muscle or joint pain.

A common cause of sciatica is a slipped disc or a bulging disc in the lower portion of the spine. The discs between the bones of our spine work like cushions. If one of them bulges or tears, it can compress an adjacent nerve.

Other reasons include changes in the spine with age, constriction of the spinal canal, bone growth and, less frequently, injury or other spinal diseases.

Not all people suffering from sciatica require a surgery. With the right kind of rest, and the use of the remedies as prescribed by a physician, physiotherapy and a gradual return to normal activity, many people get better. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms.

Some back or leg pain may get better over time, but certain symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. You should seek medical advice if the pain is severe, keeps returning, lasts for several weeks or is affecting your ability to walk, work or perform everyday activities.

Numbness or worsening weakness in the leg, trouble with urination or defecation or numbness around the inner thighs and genitals are emergencies.

Avoiding making every leg ache a diagnosis of sciatica is also important. Similar symptoms can occur due to problems involving the muscles, joints, blood vessels or other nerves, which is why it is important to consult a doctor. Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms, motion, muscle strength and reflexes and might suggest imaging if needed.

In addition to this, keeping a healthy weight, being physically active, strengthening core muscles and avoiding long periods of sitting can help keep your spine healthy.

The bottom line is: leg pain that radiates from the back or buttock is not necessarily from the leg and can be from the spine. Early identification of warning signs and proper diagnosis can prevent symptoms from becoming severe and can help to expedite a return to normal life.

(Dr. Kalidutta Das is chief and director of spine services, ISIC Multispeciality Hospital. Kaliduttadas@gmail.com)