Can sciatica cause testicle pain?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Sciatica can occasionally cause testicular pain, though it's uncommon. The sciatic nerve itself doesn't directly innervate the testicles, but irritation of nearby nerve roots (particularly L1-L2) or referred pain from lower back issues can sometimes radiate to the groin and testicular area. More often, testicular pain has other causes—such as varicocele, epididymitis, hernia, kidney stones, or infection—that require different treatments.

Because testicular pain can stem from many conditions, some urgent, it's important to identify the true source quickly. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your symptoms and get personalized guidance on your next steps. It takes just a few minutes and can help you decide whether to see a doctor, which specialist to consult, and what questions to ask.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Sciatica is pain that travels along the large nerve path from your lower back down your leg. In some cases, when there is a problem in the lower spine—such as a slipped disk—it might press on the nerves that run toward the groin and testicle. However, testicular pain can also be caused by other things such as an infection, injury, or even, though rarely, testicular cancer. That is why it is very important for anyone with testicular pain to see a doctor or use a free symptom checker to better understand potential causes.

(References)

Chu ECP, Wong AYL. Chronic Orchialgia Stemming From Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Case Report and Brief Review. Am J Mens Health. 2021 May-Jun;15(3):15579883211018431. doi: 10.1177/15579883211018431. PMID: 34027733; PMCID: PMC8141999.
Bermudez DJ, Groh J. Metastatic testicular cancer presenting as lower back pain in a pilot. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2014 Nov;85(11):1136-8. doi: 10.3357/ASEM.3886.2014. PMID: 25329948.

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