spineinsiders

What Is Sciatica? The Real Path of Sciatic Nerve Pain Sciatica isn't just simple back pain—it's caused by irritation or compression of the longest, widest nerve in your body. Starting from your lower spine (L4, L5, and S1), the sciatic nerve travels down through your buttock, thigh, knee, and all the way into your foot. Because of this extended pathway, symptoms like burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain can show up at any point along the leg. Understanding this anatomy helps explain why doctors ask precise questions about where your pain travels. Where do you feel your sciatica pain the most? Let us know in the comments below! #Sciatica #SciaticNerve #BackPain #Anatomy #anatomylesson