Sciatica is pain going down the leg from the lower back. This pain may extend down the back, outside, or front of the leg. The onset is often sudden following activities such as heavy lifting, although it may also occur gradually. The pain is often described as shooting. Typically, symptoms occur on only one side of the body; certain causes, however, may result in pain on both sides. Lower back pain is sometimes present. Weakness or numbness may occur in different parts of the affected leg and foot.