I don’t see a lot of lower back problems, as that falls more under spine surgeons than sports medicine. I do have active people come to my office, though, complaining of pain that radiates down their leg. They assume it’s a hip or hamstring issue. If you think, “I have pain down the back of my leg,” watch this video to learn more about what could be going on.

I have pain down the back of my leg. What could it be?

Sciatica is a common problem in active adults. It is irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve that runs down the back of your hip and thigh. It can often result from pathology in the lumbar spine.

"Doctor, I have pain down the back of my leg!"

You might notice lower back pain or pain in your buttock. It could shoot down the back of your thigh into your leg. It might even reach your foot and toes. You might also experience numbness or tingling. Some patients even describe weakness in their ankle or foot.

If these symptoms sound like what you’re dealing with, watch this video to learn more. Often the problem can resolve with physical therapy, injections, or other treatments.

Also read:
What could cause leg pain in a runner other than a stress fracture?
I can’t put weight on my foot. What should I do?

Please remember, while I appreciate your questions, I cannot and will not offer specific medical advice by email, on my website, on my podcast, or in social media. My responses are meant to provide general medical information and education. Please consult your physician or health care provider for your specific medical concerns.

Recommended Products and Resources
Click here to go to Dr. David Geier’s Amazon Influencer store!
Due to a large number of questions I have received over the years asking about products for health, injuries, performance, and other areas of sports, exercise, work and life, I have created an Amazon Influencer page. While this information and these products are not intended to treat any specific injury or illness you have, they are products I use personally, have used or have tried, or I have recommended to others. THE SITE MAY OFFER HEALTH, FITNESS, NUTRITIONAL AND OTHER SUCH INFORMATION, BUT SUCH INFORMATION IS DESIGNED FOR EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE CONTENT DOES NOT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO CONVEY MEDICAL ADVICE AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. YOU SHOULD NOT RELY ON THIS INFORMATION AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR, NOR DOES IT REPLACE, PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. THE SITE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ACTIONS OR INACTION ON A USER’S PART BASED ON THE INFORMATION THAT IS PRESENTED ON THE SITE. Please note that as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.