Sciatica usually happens when a herniated disk or an overgrowth of bone, sometimes called bone spurs, presses on the nerve in the spine.

Sciatica can cause pain anywhere along the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve branches from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. It typically affects only one side of the body. Sciatica also can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot.

Medicines for pain and physical therapy are common treatments. In some cases, steroid injections around the nerve root can reduce pain. If pain doesn't improve with other treatments, surgery may be an option.