What could be the cause of pain extending from the buttocks to the foot?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Pain that radiates from the buttocks down to the foot is most commonly caused by sciatica or piriformis syndrome. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc, causing sharp, shooting nerve pain along the leg. Piriformis syndrome happens when the piriformis muscle in the buttocks tightens or spasms, pressing on the sciatic nerve and producing similar radiating discomfort.

Because both conditions share overlapping symptoms but require different treatments, identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective relief. The fastest way to narrow down what may be behind your pain is to take a free, instant, and confidential symptom check online. It only takes a few minutes, uses AI-powered medical insights, and helps you understand possible causes and next steps—so you can make informed decisions about your care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

Pain running from the buttocks to the foot can be due to a few common conditions. One of these is sciatica, which happens when a nerve in your lower back gets pinched. This can cause pain that travels down your leg. Sciatica can feel like a sharp, shooting pain or a burning sensation. It often happens when you have a slipped disk or other back problems.

Another possible cause is piriformis syndrome. This is when a small muscle in your buttocks, called the piriformis muscle, presses on a nerve. This can also send pain down your leg. The pain might feel like a dull ache or a sharp pain, and it can get worse if you sit for a long time or climb stairs.

If you have pain from your buttocks to your foot, it's important to identify what might be causing it. You can start by taking a free symptom checker test to help understand your symptoms better and determine if you need to see a doctor. Getting the right treatment can help you feel better and keep the pain from coming back.

(References)

van Tulder M, Peul W, & Koes B. (2010). Sciatica: what the rheumatologist needs to know. Nature reviews. Rheumatology, 20142811.
Hopayian K, Song F, Riera R, & Sambandan S. (2010). The clinical features of the piriformis syndrome. European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society, 20596735.
Davis AA, & Carragee EJ. (1992). Sciatica: Treating a Painful Symptom. The Physician and sportsmedicine, 27414674.

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