16/03/2026
Sciatic nerve
• Runs from the lower back → hips → buttocks → down the back of the leg
• When irritated, it causes sharp, burning, or shooting pain
Muscles that commonly cause or worsen sciatic pain
1. Piriformis muscle
• Located deep in the buttock
• If tight or inflamed, it can press on the sciatic nerve
• This condition is called Piriformis syndrome
2. Gluteus maximus
• Tightness or trigger points can refer pain down the leg
3. Gluteus medius
• Can cause hip and leg pain that feels similar to sciatica
4. Hamstrings
• Tight hamstrings can increase tension on the sciatic nerve
Common symptoms of sciatica
• Pain in lower back, buttock, or back of the leg
• Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
• Pain when sitting for long periods
pain
