Dr Ahmed SalamaShooting leg pain? Treatment options are available.
Sciatica happens when a nerve root in the lower back becomes irritated or compressed. It can cause burning or electric shock-like pain, tingling or numbness down the leg, which is often worse than the back pain itself.
Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the leg, sometimes to the foot, often with tingling, numbness or a burning feeling. It happens when a nerve root in the lower spine is irritated or compressed, and the leg pain is often worse than the back pain.
Many cases improve within 6–12 weeks with activity, pain relief and physiotherapy. When pain is severe, persistent or stopping you from working or sleeping, an epidural or nerve root injection can settle the irritated nerve and help you get back to normal activity.