Can Sciatica Cause Hip Pain?
Sciatica is a condition which often will come up during discussions surrounding back pain, leg discomfort, or nerve issues. One of the most common questions many people will have is whether or not sciatica can lead to hip pain. In this post, we’ll go over the connection between sciatica and hip pain, and how affected individuals can identify the right treatment options with the help of medical providers who truly understand sciatica and all it entails. With that being said, let’s explore sciatica and hip pain are connected.
Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica refers to the pain which radiates down the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down the legs. It is caused by compression or initiation of the sciatic nerve, or its roots located in the lower spine area. Common causes of sciatica include herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine).
The Sciatica & Hip Pain Connection
While yes, sciatica primarily affects the lower back and legs, it may indeed cause hip pain as well. Here’s how the sciatica nerve’s pathway makes this possible in some cases:
- Nerve Compression: The sciatic nerve will pass through or near the hip joint, if this nerve happens to be compressed, it may cause pain not only in the areas directly affected by the nerve pathway itself, but also in nearby regions such as the hip.
- Radiating Pain: Radiating pain and sciatica will often come along as a pair. The pain may start in the lower back or buttocks, yet it may then spread to the hip and further down the leg in some cases.
- Referred Pain: In some cases, the pain is not directly caused by issues seen in the hip, it is referred to as pain due to the sciatica itself and the pain is experienced in the hip.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you happen to be experiencing what you suspect may be sciatica-related hip pain, you’ll want to look out for the following symptoms:
- Pain which radiates from your lower back to your hip and down your leg
- Numbness or a tingling sensation in the hip or down the leg
- A sharp pain which may make it difficult to stand up or move your leg
Managing Sciatica-Induced Hip Pain
Having to deal with sciatica and its effects on the hip involves a combination of self-care measures and possible medical intervention:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist will be able to design exercises which stretch and strengthen the muscles around the sciatic nerve, possibly relieving pressure
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce inflammation and pain and in more severe cases, your doctor may recommend prescription medications or pain management therapies
- Lifestyle Modifications: Avoid activities which trigger pain, and make changes to reduce stress on your lower back and hips, such as using ergonomic furniture and practicing better posture
Choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for Your Sciatica & Hip Pain
While sciatica is certainly associated with back and leg pain, it can also cause significant levels of pain and discomfort in the hip area. Through recognizing the signs and symptoms of hip pain induced by sciatica, you can better address the issue with the help of medical providers. If you suspect your hip pain may be related to sciatica, you’ll want to contact us to learn more about how we may be able to help you return to a pain-free lifestyle. Feel free to contact us using the form below and we’ll be sure to reply to your message as soon as possible and have you scheduled to see one of our amazing medical team members. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.