Eight out of 10 people will have lower back pain at some point in their lives, and four out of 10 might get sciatica. It’s easy to mix them up because they have similar symptoms.
Both lower back pain and sciatica happen when nerves get pinched or irritated. They can be mild or severe. They might go away quickly, or they can last a long time and make it hard to do daily activities. These problems can also happen more often as you get older. So, what’s the difference?
Whether you have general back pain or sciatic nerve pain, it can be best figured out by a sciatic nerve pain doctor.
At first, it can be hard to tell if you have lower back pain or sciatica. The tricky part is that they often come together. But lower back pain and sciatica are different conditions.
Understanding a General Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is exactly what it sounds like—pain in the lower part of your back. It can happen for many reasons, such as muscle strain, poor posture, or lifting something heavy. The pain can be dull or sharp, and it might come and go. Usually, lower back pain stays in the back and doesn’t spread to other areas.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is different. Although it usually begins in the lower back, it frequently travels through the buttocks and into one or both legs. This happens because the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body, gets irritated or pinched. The pain from sciatica can be sharp, burning, or even feel like an electric shock. Sometimes, it comes with numbness or tingling.
Key Differences between Lower Back Pain and Sciatica
The main difference between lower back pain and sciatica is where the pain goes. Lower back pain usually stays in the back, while sciatica travels down your leg. If you feel pain shooting down your leg, it’s likely sciatica. If the pain is only in your back, it’s more likely to be lower back pain.
A sciatic nerve pain doctor can help you figure out which one you’re dealing with and suggest the best treatment. They may recommend physical therapy, medications, or other treatments depending on your symptoms.
When to See a Sciatic Nerve Pain Doctor
If you have lower back pain or think you might have sciatica, it’s a good idea to see a sciatic nerve pain doctor. They can help you understand what’s causing your pain and how to treat it. The quicker you receive assistance, the sooner you will be able to recover.
Knowing the difference between lower back pain and sciatica allows you to opt for the right treatment. While lower back pain stays in the back, sciatica often travels down the leg. If you’re not sure which one you have, a sciatic nerve pain doctor can help you find out and recommend the best treatment options.
By knowing the signs and seeing a sciatic nerve pain doctor, you can take control of your pain and start feeling better.
