What does sciatica in hip feel like?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

Sciatica is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain in the hip. The pain experienced in the hip due to sciatica can be quite diverse and can range from a dull ache to excruciating pain. It is important to note that the symptoms of sciatica can vary from person to person, so not everyone will experience the same level of pain or discomfort.

One common characteristic of sciatica pain in the hip is that it typically only occurs on one side of the body at a time. This means that if you are experiencing pain in your left hip, it is unlikely that you will also have pain in your right hip. This unilateral nature of sciatica can be helpful in identifying the condition.

The pain in the hip caused by sciatica can worsen under certain circumstances. For example, you may notice that the pain gets worse when you cough or sneeze. This is because the increased pressure in the abdomen during these actions can put additional strain on the sciatic nerve, leading to increased pain in the hip.

Another symptom that you may experience with sciatica in the hip is numbness or tingling. After sitting for a long period of time, you may notice that your hip and buttock go numb or tingle. This is due to the compression of the sciatic nerve, which can result in sensory changes in the affected area.

It is also worth mentioning that the pain caused by sciatica can radiate from the hip down the leg. This pain typically follows the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the hip, and down the back of the leg. Therefore, you may feel pain, numbness, or tingling not only in the hip but also in the buttock, thigh, and calf.

Sciatica in the hip can present as a dull ache or excruciating pain, and anywhere in between. It usually affects only one side of the body at a time and may worsen when coughing or sneezing. Numbness or tingling in the hip and buttock after prolonged sitting is also a common symptom. Additionally, the pain may radiate down the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of sciatica.