24/11/2025
Not All Leg Pain Is Sciatica – Conditions That Mimic the Same Symptoms
Leg pain that radiates downward is often assumed to be sciatica, but several other conditions can produce similar symptoms. Hip arthritis, vascular insufficiency, piriformis syndrome, spinal stenosis, and peripheral neuropathy can all cause leg discomfort, numbness, tingling, or weakness. Misdiagnosis leads to ineffective treatment and delayed recovery.
Understanding the source of pain begins with evaluating whether symptoms worsen with walking, sitting, bending, or resting. True sciatica usually originates from nerve compression in the spine, but other causes may stem from joint wear, muscle compression, circulation issues, or metabolic conditions like diabetes.
Accurate diagnosis requires clinical assessment, neurological examination, and imaging when needed. Once the correct underlying cause is identified, targeted treatment can restore mobility, reduce pain, and prevent progression. Recognizing that leg pain has multiple possible origins empowers patients to seek precise evaluation rather than assuming it is always sciatica.
