‘Sciatica’ is often used to describe any pain that travels into the buttock or leg. True sciatica is usually nerve root irritation. But many leg symptoms are referred (somatic) pain from the spine, joints, discs, muscles, or ligaments — painful, but not primarily a nerve problem. Sciatica (nerve root pain): common features Pain that travels below the knee (common, not mandatory) Pins and needles, numbness, or altered sensation Sharp, electric, burning pain Symptoms change wit
