Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back to your buttocks and legs. You may develop sciatica if you injure or put pressure on the sciatic nerve.1,3 Common causes include:
Most people with sciatica experience pain that shoots down the back, buttocks, and legs. Many say it feels like an electric shock or a burning sensation. Other symptoms include numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.1,3
Sciatica’s Link to Knee Pain
If you’re living with sciatica, it’s possible to also experience knee pain. The sciatic nerve runs the entire length of your leg — from your lower back, behind your knee, and to your feet and toes.4 At your knee, the sciatic nerve branches off into the peroneal nerve. You may experience knee pain from sciatica if the peroneal nerve becomes irritated.4,5
The peroneal nerve is responsible for controlling sensations and movement in the legs and feet. When the sciatic and peroneal nerves are damaged, irritated, or compressed, you can develop knee and leg pain.5
Some signs that sciatica is causing your knee pain include1,3,5:
Identifying Sciatica-Induced Knee Pain
Talk to your doctor if you think your knee pain may be due to sciatica. Healthcare professionals are trained to diagnose and treat these conditions. They can perform a physical exam to diagnose your sciatica. Imaging tests also help rule out other conditions causing knee pain.3
Solutions and Management
Sciatic knee pain can be uncomfortable and debilitating at times. Fortunately, treating the underlying cause of your sciatica should also treat your knee pain. If a spinal issue is responsible for your sciatic pain, you may need surgery to relieve pressure from the nerve.3,6
Your doctor may also recommend supportive treatments you can do at home. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and icing the nerve help to reduce inflammation. You can also alternate between ice and heat to control nerve pain.3 Topical therapies like Vital Promise’s Knee Therapy Patches provide a natural solution formulated with wormwood to minimize discomfort.
Physical therapy experts also recommend gentle exercises and stretches for the back, hips, and knees. Be sure to follow their instructions closely to avoid injuries.7
Conclusion
Sciatica does more than just cause numbness, muscle weakness, and tingling — it may also be the suspect behind your knee pain. Luckily, doctors treat sciatic knee pain by addressing the underlying cause.3 With supportive therapy like ice, heat, and natural topical therapies, you can take control of your knee pain and maximize comfort.