What Does Sciatica Feel Like?

Sciatica feels like sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down through your buttock and leg. The pain often resembles an electric shock or burning sensation that follows the path of the sciatic nerve. Many people describe it as a deep ache combined with stabbing pains that can worsen with sitting, coughing, or sneezing. The affected leg may also experience numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Pain intensity varies from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating episodes that make walking or standing difficult. Sciatica typically affects only one side of the body and can extend from the lower back all the way down to the toes.