Can Sciatica Cause Testicle Pain?

Emergency Medicine, Holy Name Medical Center

Supervised by Tomas Diaz, MD

Yes, sometimes sciatica can cause pain that reaches the testicle, but it is not common and other explanations must be considered.

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.

(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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