How to Know If You Have Back Pain or Sciatic Pain?

Many people experience back pain at some point, but not all back pain is the same.

If you’ve ever felt a sharp, radiating pain down your leg,

you might be dealing with sciatica rather than a simple backache.

But how can you tell the difference?

Understanding a Regular Backache

A typical backache is usually caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or overuse.

It often presents as:

• A dull, aching pain in the lower back
• Stiffness, especially in the morning
• Pain that improves with rest or gentle stretching

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve (the longest nerve in your body) gets compressed or irritated.

This can be due to a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spinal issues.

Symptoms include:

• Sharp or burning pain that travels down one leg
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Pain that worsens when sitting for too long
• Weakness in the affected leg

Key Differences Between Sciatica and Backache

Feature	Regular Backache	Sciatica
Location	Lower back only	Lower back + leg pain
Pain Type	Dull ache	Sharp, burning pain
Affected Area	Local	Goes down the leg
Trigger	Posture, lifting, stress	Nerve compression, herniated disc

How to Manage the Pain

For a regular backache, stretching, maintaining good posture, and using ergonomic chairs can help.

For sciatica, treatment may include:

• Physical therapy to relieve nerve pressure
• Strengthening exercises for back and core muscles
• Avoiding prolonged sitting
• Seeking medical advice if symptoms persist

Get Expert Physiotherapy in Sargodha

If you’re experiencing back pain and unsure whether it’s sciatica,

it’s best to consult a professional.

Dr. Farjad Afzal, a physiotherapy expert at Khawaja Arshad Hospital, Sargodha,

has over 14 years of experience helping patients with back pain and sciatica.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term discomfort.

Book an appointment today to take the first step toward relief!