Symptoms of sciatica can vary from person to person, from mild to severe. Below are common symptoms of sciatica.  Sharp or dull pain, the ache of the lower back, buttocks, groin, and or back of the leg. On one side in most cases.  Increase pain when sitting and or bending forward. Burning, pins and needle sensations felt at the back of the leg, calf, foot. Pain getting up from sitting Pain rolling over in bed at night Back pain going up or downstairs, or pain worse with walking Night pain, if night sweats are reported then referral is needed. The leg can feel heavy The leg can feel like it is dead Loss of bowel and bladder control in rare cases (get this checked straight away) Loss of sensation compared to the other side.  Weakness. Drop foot can occur when the strength of the lower leg muscles have reduced.