Which specialist treats sciatica?

Sciatica describes irritation or compression of a nerve root in the lower back, with pain that can travel through the buttock and leg. A general practitioner or musculoskeletal physician can begin the assessment, check strength and reflexes, and coordinate referral. An orthopaedic spine specialist or neurologist may be involved when symptoms are persistent, neurological findings are present, or the diagnosis is uncertain. Causes can include a disc problem, spinal narrowing, vertebral slippage, or irritation near the buttock such as piriformis syndrome.

Arrange an assessment if leg pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness is affecting walking, sleep, or daily tasks. Treatment often starts with activity guidance and physiotherapy, including exercise therapy tailored to your movement and nerve symptoms. If pain remains limiting, a spine specialist may discuss an epidural steroid injection. A structural problem that continues to cause disabling symptoms may lead to a conversation about microdiscectomy, but this is not needed for everyone.

Seek emergency care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the genitals or inner thighs, or rapidly worsening weakness in both legs. Get prompt medical advice for severe pain after a significant injury, fever with back pain, or unexplained weight loss. These features need assessment because they can signal a problem requiring faster treatment.

Ask which nerve may be involved, whether your examination suggests a back or buttock source, and what changes should trigger urgent review. You can also ask how long to try physiotherapy, whether imaging would change management, and which activities are reasonable while symptoms settle.