Sciatic nerve dysfunction

Alternative names:

neuropathy - sciatic nerve

Symptoms:

• sensation changes
  • of the back of the calf or the sole of the foot
  • numbness, decreased sensation
  • tingling, burning sensation
  • pain, may be severe
  • abnormal sensations

• weakness of the knee or foot
  • difficulty walking
  • inability to move the foot (in severe cases)
  • inability to bend the knee (in severe cases)

Signs and tests:

A neuromuscular examination of the legs indicates sciatic nerve dysfunction. There may be weakness of knee flexion (bending), weakness of foot movements, difficulty bending the foot inward (inversion), or bending the foot down (plantar flexion). Reflexes may be abnormal, with weak or absent ankle-jerk reflex.

Tests that reveal sciatic nerve dysfunction may include:

• EMG (a recording of electrical activity in muscles)
• nerve conduction tests

Tests are guided by the suspected cause of the dysfunction, as suggested by the history, symptoms presented, and pattern of symptom development. They may include various blood tests, X-rays, scans, or other tests and procedures.