The term sciatica refers to the symptoms of pain or numbness caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, which runs from the hip to the foot. We have summarized where sciatica occurs, its characteristics, and treatment methods.
Explanation about the sciatic nerve

Table of Contents

Where does sciatica pain occur? Calves? Back of the thigh?

Man feeling pain in the waist

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body, running from the hip to the foot. Pain or numbness that occurs from the hip to the foot is called sciatica. This is not a disease name but a general term for these symptoms. The main causes of sciatica are herniated discs or spinal canal stenosis. Poor posture, muscle weakness, or heavy exercise can trigger sciatica. Its typical symptoms include pain or numbness that stretches from the hip, back of the thigh, calf, shin, to the toes.


What are the treatment methods for sciatica?

Explanation about sciatica

The treatment method for sciatica is to treat the underlying causes such as herniated discs or spinal canal stenosis. If the symptoms are mild, rehabilitation or medical treatment is the first choice. Strengthening muscles and stabilizing posture is effective for sciatica. If pain or numbness in the calf or back of the thigh is severe and interferes with daily life, surgery may need to be considered. Surgery involves removing discs or ligaments, or using screws to stabilize the vertebrae. This surgery requires several weeks of hospitalization and puts a strain on your body. In addition to surgery, we also offer disc recovery treatments that can be done on an outpatient basis, reducing the burden on the body. You can view the details of the treatment through the link below.


【Summary】Does sciatica cause pain in the calves or back of the thigh?

Man feeling pain in the waist

If pain or numbness appears in the calves or thighs, it might be sciatica. Sciatica does not always mean that surgery is required. In many cases, symptoms can subside with rehabilitation or other conservative therapies before considering surgery. If you're confused about what to do, feel free to contact our clinic.

If anything is unclear, please contact us.

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About the Author

Author: Clinic Director Dr. Ysuyuki Nonaka

Clinic Director Dr. Yasuyuki Nonaka

NLC Nonaka Lumbago Clinic offers medical treatment with a combined focus on the spinal conditions that cause low back pain. By introducing advanced treatments from all over the world, we are able to expand the treatment options for patients suffering from back and other spinal diseases, and propose treatment solutions tailored to their symptoms and conditions. Staying focused on diseases such as disc degeneration and disc herniation that cause spinal canal stenosis and back pain, we provide treatments that are less burdensome for elderly patients, for patients considering reoperation, and those seeking to return to society in a short period of time.

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Jun.2018 - Jan. 2025