There are two types of sciatica. No matter what type you have, the effect is the same. True sciatica: This is any pain or injury that directly affects the sciatic nerve. Sciatica-like pain: This pain is similar to sciatic pain, but occurs in conjunction with the sciatic nerve or other causes that combine to form the sciatic nerve. Doctors like to call both types collectively “sciatica.” The difference between them usually only matters once your doctor decides how to treat them.