03/16/2026
Most people think sciatica is a leg problem because that’s where the pain shows up.
But the sciatic nerve actually starts in your lower back and travels all the way down the leg. When the joints or discs in the lumbar spine become irritated, that nerve can become irritated too, sending pain, numbness, or burning down the leg.
That’s why just stretching the leg or rubbing the area doesn’t always solve the problem.
Pain may show up in the leg, but the source is often in the spine.