Is it back pain or sciatica? Here’s what to look for

From clickondetroit.com

A sharp jolt of pain that shoots from your lower back down your leg. A burning or tingling sensation that makes it uncomfortable to sit, stand or sleep. For many people, it’s not ordinary back pain; it could be sciatica.

According to Dr. Mahmoud Sabbagh, a pain management physician at DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM), sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or inflamed.

“Something pressing on the nerve can cause pain in the lower back going down the leg,” he explained.

Some people may also experience numbness, tingling, burning, spasms or cramping that feels like a Charlie horse. Symptoms can look different from person to person and don’t always appear all at once.

What causes sciatica?

One of the most common causes Sabbagh sees is a bulging or herniated disc that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. Arthritis and spinal stenosis -- when the space around the nerve narrows -- can also irritate the sciatic nerve over time. 

Lifestyle and work routines may increase your risk, as well. Sitting for long periods, especially in jobs like trucking, puts pressure on the spine. Lifting heavy objects without proper form, weaker core muscles and carrying extra body weight can also strain the lower back.

As many as 40% of people in the U.S. will have sciatica during their life, and it becomes more frequent as we age.

When to pay attention

Mild cases may improve with rest, stretching or over-the-counter medication.

However, Sabbagh recommended seeing a provider if the pain:

• Lasts more than a few days.
• Doesn’t improve with basic at-home care.
• Starts to affect sleep, mobility or daily routines.

“Waiting too long can make treatment harder and limit options,” he said.

As many as 40% of people in the U.S. will have sciatica during their life, and it becomes more frequent as we age. (Detroit Medical Center)

Treatment options

Care usually begins with the least invasive steps.

“We always begin with the simplest approach,” Sabbagh said.

Treatment may include:

• Avoiding movements that add pressure to the nerve.
• Guided home exercises or physical therapy.
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.

If pain makes walking, sitting or standing difficult, a steroid injection may be considered to help reduce inflammation.

One misconception Sabbagh hears often is that injections are something patients will need repeatedly.

“Our goal is always one,” he said.

If symptoms return, the treatment plan is re-evaluated.

Surgery is rare and only explored when other options have not helped.

Why early care matters

Sciatica doesn’t have to become a long-term issue. Recognizing symptoms early and getting evaluated when the pain lingers can make a meaningful difference in comfort, mobility and overall quality of life.

https://www.clickondetroit.com/sponsored/2025/10/21/is-it-back-pain-or-sciatica-heres-what-to-look-for/