Sciatica (also known as radiating or referred pain, neuropathy, or neuralgia) is characterized by pain in the lower back that radiates down one or both legs. The pain is often described as dull, achy, sharp, like “pins and needles” or similar to electric shocks. Other symptoms associated with sciatica include burning, numbness and tingling sensations. Sciatic nerve pain varies in intensity and frequency, and usually progresses gradually over time.