M54.3: Sciatica
You may have pain at the back of the leg if the sciatic nerve is irritated. The sciatic nerve is made up of many individual nerve fibers. The nerve fibers come together to form one big nerve near the spine. There is a sciatic nerve for each side of the body, right and left. The sciatic nerve runs from the behind down the back of the thigh to the foot.
When the sciatic nerve gets constricted along the way, it can cause pain in the back of the leg. The muscles around the spine may also be stiff and painful. You may be unable to feel certain parts of your skin properly. It may also no longer be possible to move the knee or foot so well.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.