HSS on the Move

True or False? Sciatica is a common diagnosis where a herniated lumbar disc presses on the sciatic nerve and pain radiates down the leg.

That’s FALSE. Physiatrist Dr. Paul Cooke says, “Sciatica is not a diagnosis, but is a term that describes symptoms that occur in the distribution of the sciatic nerve. That large nerve is made up of smaller nerve roots that join together after they exit the lower lumbosacral spine. The sciatic nerve then travels to the buttock, back or outside of the thigh and calf, and to the foot. The symptom(s) may be pain, numbness and/or tingling and may exist anywhere along the course of the sciatic nerve. There are several possible diagnoses that can cause sciatica symptoms, most commonly a herniated lumbar disc causing impingment of one of those spinal nerve roots. A lumbar disc cannot actually press on the sciatic nerve since the sciatic nerve is formed after the roots exit the spine. However, there are other conditions where the sciatic nerve is compressed in the pelvis or upper leg and can mimic a herniated disc. Your physician can help to arrive at a definitive diagnosis of the cause of sciatica symptoms with a good history-taking and physical examination, supplemented by imaging studies if needed.” Learn more at http://www.hss.edu/animation-spine-sciatica.htm.

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