Diagnosis and treatment of sciatica

Sciatica is commonly used to describe radiating leg pain. It is caused by inflammation or compression of the lumbosacral nerve roots (L4-S1) forming the sciatic nerve.1 Sciatica can cause severe discomfort and functional limitation. Recently updated clinical guidelines in Denmark, the US, and the UK highlight the role of conservative treatment for sciatica.234 In this Clinical Update, we provide an overview for non-specialists on diagnosing sciatica and key principles in its management.