3 Common Conditions That Feel Like Sciatica (But Aren't)

Not All Leg Pain is Sciatica: Here’s What Else It Could Be

If you’ve been dealing with pain, tingling, or numbness down the leg and assumed it’s sciatica, you’re not alone. But here’s the catch: not every case of radiating leg pain is actually sciatica. Several other conditions can cause similar symptoms, and getting the wrong diagnosis can mean wasting time, money, and experiencing ongoing discomfort.

At Hans Chiropractic & Injury Center in Norcross, we specialize in diagnosing and treating lower back pain, sciatica, and similar conditions. Before you begin treatment, it’s important to understand what might really be causing your symptoms.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in your body, becomes irritated or compressed. This typically results in radiating pain from the lower back down one leg and may also include numbness or tingling. Common causes include herniated discs, bone spurs, or tight muscles that put pressure on the nerve.

However, sciatica is not the only condition that causes these symptoms. Here are three other possibilities that are often mistaken for sciatica.

1. Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome happens when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, becomes tight or spasms and compresses the sciatic nerve. Unlike classic sciatica that starts in the lower back, piriformis syndrome often begins in the buttocks and may worsen with sitting or physical activity.

Treatment tip: Chiropractic adjustments combined with soft tissue work and stretching can reduce tension in the piriformis and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

2. Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction

The sacroiliac joints connect the base of your spine to your pelvis. When these joints move too much or not enough, they can cause pain that mimics sciatica. This pain may radiate into the hip, thigh, or lower leg.

Key difference: SI joint dysfunction usually does not cause numbness or tingling and tends to feel more localized to the buttock or upper thigh.

Chiropractic care helps restore proper joint motion and reduces inflammation without the need for injections or medications.

3. Spinal Joint Conditions Like Arthritis

Degenerative joint conditions in the spine, such as facet joint arthritis, can cause inflammation and stiffness in the lower back. This type of pain may sometimes radiate down the leg in a way that resembles sciatica.

Signs to look for: The pain may be more consistent and worsens with prolonged standing or walking, rather than sharp or shooting pain caused by nerve compression.

Chiropractic treatments focus on improving joint mobility and reducing inflammation for long-term relief.

Get the Right Diagnosis from a Norcross Chiropractor

If at-home remedies have not worked or your pain keeps coming back, it’s time to seek professional care. At Hans Chiropractic & Injury Center, we provide comprehensive evaluations to determine whether your symptoms are caused by sciatica or a similar condition.

Our chiropractic team uses advanced testing, hands-on assessments, and customized treatment plans to address the root cause of your pain. We use safe, non-invasive techniques such as spinal adjustments, decompression therapy, and corrective exercises to help you recover naturally.