Back pain and sciatica
Pain in the lower back that can spread down the leg.
Back pain and sciatica: what it is
Most back pain is mechanical: it comes from strain of the muscles, joints or discs and settles within weeks. Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the leg, usually from irritation of a nerve.
A smaller group of people have inflammatory back pain, caused by inflammation of the spine and the joints at the base of the spine. This is a rheumatology problem and often starts before the age of 40.
Back pain and sciatica: common signs
- Back pain that lasts longer than six weeks
- Pain and stiffness that are worse in the morning or after rest and that ease with movement
- Pain that wakes you in the second half of the night
- Pain spreading down the leg, with tingling or numbness
- Back pain together with eye redness, a skin rash such as psoriasis, or bowel symptoms
Back pain and sciatica: how a rheumatologist helps
Telling mechanical and inflammatory back pain apart through your history, examination, blood tests and imaging when needed.
Explaining the cause and the outlook, and advising on exercise, posture and activity.
Treating inflammatory back pain with suitable medicines and a long-term plan.
- Loss of control of the bladder or bowel
- Numbness around the groin or inner thighs (the saddle area)
- Weakness in both legs, or a foot that drags
- Back pain after a significant injury, with fever, or with unexplained weight loss
In an emergency call 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Related conditions
Plan your visit
See what to bring to your first visit, then choose a clinic consultation in Rawalpindi or a video consultation.
This page is general information for awareness. It is not a diagnosis or treatment advice.