Sciatica doesn’t just cause leg and buttock pain. New research shows it can also lead to discomfort in a much more delicate area – the testicles. Chronic scrotal pain (CSP) is estimated to affect up to 4.75% of men.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the connection between sciatic nerve issues and testicular pain. Read on to learn what causes this pattern of discomfort, how to differentiate it from other conditions, and most importantly – what you can do about it.
What Is Sciatica and How Is It Related to Testicular Pain?
Sciatica refers to pain, weakness, numbness or tingling that stems from the sciatic nerve, which is made up of several smaller nerve roots exiting the lower spine. When these nerve roots become compressed or irritated, it can cause symptoms anywhere along the path of the sciatic nerve, including down the back of the thigh and into the leg and foot.
But what does this have to do with testicular pain?
Since the sciatic nerve travels from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg, an irritation of spinal nerves in the lower back can radiate pain into the groin and testicles.
Several spinal issues are associated with sciatica and referred testicular discomfort are:
| Condition | Description |
| Herniated discs | Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. A herniation occurs when the soft inner material pushes out. This can press on nerve roots and cause sciatica. About 90% of sciatica cases are caused by a herniated disc with nerve root compression. |
| Spinal stenosis | Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerves. This is often caused by age-related degeneration. |
| Spondylolisthesis | When one vertebra slips forward over another, pinching nerves. |
| Piriformis syndrome | The piriformis muscle in the butt spasms and irritates the sciatic nerve. |
| Sacroiliac joint dysfunction | Inflammation of the sacroiliac joints can cause referred pain to the testicles. |
What Causes Testicular Pain?
While sciatica is one potential cause of testicular discomfort, several other medical conditions can also be responsible. Familiarizing yourself with these can help you determine whether your symptoms require prompt medical attention:
| Condition | Description |
| Epididymitis | This condition is an inflammation of the coiled tube behind the testicle, often caused by infections. Epididymitis is the leading cause of acute scrotal pain in adults, with over 600,000 cases diagnosed annually in US emergency rooms. |
| Testicular torsion | Twisting of the spermatic cord cuts off blood flow. This is a medical emergency requiring fast treatment. |
| Varicocele | Enlarged veins in the scrotum. Can cause an aching pain. |
| Hydrocele | Swelling from fluid buildup around the testicle. May cause dull pain. |
| Inguinal hernia | Tissue protrudes through the inguinal canal into the scrotum. Can involve testicular swelling. |
| Testicular cancer | Although rare, testicular tumors may initially cause discomfort or aching. |
| Kidney stones | Can radiate pain from the back down toward the groin and testicles. |
| Urinary tract infections | May cause pain that radiates to the scrotal area. |
If you notice any unusual testicular symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor promptly. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key for proper treatment of the underlying issue.
Signs Your Testicular Pain May Be Linked to Sciatica
Wondering if your testicular discomfort could be a referred pain from a nerve issue in your back? Here are some clues:
- Pain that starts in the lower back and shoots downward
- Tingling or numbness that radiates into the groin or testicles
- Symptoms worsen when sitting or bending forward
- Relief comes from walking, stretching or changing positions
- No visible swelling or lump in the testicle
- Pain may alternate between testicles
- Lower back issues like spinal arthritis are present
When Should You See a Doctor for Testicular Pain?
Mild, fleeting testicular discomfort often resolves on its own, but any significant or persistent pain deserves medical attention. See a doctor right away if you experience:
- Sudden, severe testicular pain, swelling or lumps
- Pain along with fever, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Pain lasting over a week with no improvement
- Trauma like being kicked or hit in the groin
- Difficulty urinating along with testicular pain
- Prior history of testicular cancer or risk factors
Even if it ends up being referred to as sciatic or nerve pain, getting checked out can give you peace of mind. Most causes of acute testicular pain like infections or torsion require prompt treatment. Your doctor can perform an exam and testing to pinpoint the source.
How to Relieve Testicular Pain Associated to Sciatica?
If your testicular pain does stem from an irritated sciatic nerve, targeting the back issue should provide relief. Here are some options for easing sciatic discomfort:
| Treatment | Description |
| OTC medications | Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen can help reduce nerve inflammation. |
| Heat/ice packs | Alternating heat and ice may relieve painful sciatic flare ups. |
| Stretches and exercises | Specific movements can take pressure off compressed nerves. Physical therapy is ideal. |
| Massage | May loosen tight muscles like the piriformis that irritate the sciatic nerve. |
| Spinal adjustments | Chiropractic manipulation aims to improve alignment and mobilize the spine. |
| Acupuncture | Shows evidence of alleviating nerve-related pain for some sciatica patients. |
| Steroid injections | Epidural injection of corticosteroids can reduce inflammation around compressed nerves. |
| Surgery | For severe sciatica that fails to improve with other therapies. Aims to remove sources of nerve compression. |
A combination approach is often most effective. Seeking guidance from a back pain specialist can help determine the optimal treatment plan.
When Should Sciatica Surgery be Considered?
Most patients with sciatica improve through conservative treatment and do not require surgery. But for moderate to severe cases that fail to respond after 3-6 months, surgery may be an option. You may be a candidate for surgery if:
- Debilitating leg/back pain persists despite attempted therapies
- There is progressive muscle weakness or numbness
- You have difficulty standing, walking or controlling bowel/bladder
- Imaging reveals surgical target like herniated disc or spinal stenosis
Talk to your doctor about whether surgery could provide relief in your individual case. For many with mild to moderate sciatica, conservative management remains the appropriate course.
7 Ways to Prevent Sciatica and Associated Testicular Discomfort
You can take proactive steps to avoid developing sciatic nerve irritation and referred testicular pain in the first place:
- Exercise regularly: Having strong back and abdominal muscles helps take pressure off the lower spine.
- Practice proper lifting form: Use your legs more than your back. Avoid twisting while lifting heavy loads.
- Maintain ideal weight: Extra weight overworks the spine and can hasten degeneration.
- Sit with good posture: Limit sitting for extended periods. Take standing breaks.
- Manage chronic conditions: Diabetes and smoking heighten spinal problems.
- Use ergonomic furniture: Chairs and workstations that reduce strain on the back.
- Avoid high-impact activities: Running on hard or uneven surfaces can stress spinal discs and nerves.
Addressing back problems early through postural correction, physical therapy, chiropractic care and building core strength can help defuse issues before they progress.
The Takeaway
Sciatic nerve irritation arising from spinal issues can sometimes refer pain down into the testicles and scrotum. If you notice testicular discomfort that shoots down from your back, this nerve connection may be the reason. Seeking treatment for the spinal source – be it a herniated disc, tight piriformis muscle or other factor – can often resolve both the back and testicular pain.
Conservative therapies like anti-inflammatories, stretches and chiropractic adjustment form the cornerstone for managing most cases of sciatica-related testicular pain. Surgery may be an option for the small percentage of patients with debilitating pain that persists despite other treatments.
The key is determining the root cause of your symptoms through a medical evaluation. This allows proper treatment which may be directed at either the testicles themselves or underlying sciatic nerve irritation.
Connect with the Experts!
Don’t ignore ongoing testicular pain or discomfort. Getting checked by a doctor can lead to an accurate diagnosis and targeted relief options. With the right treatment plan, most men find their testicular pain improves or resolves completely. Regaining comfort and getting back to normal function are attainable goals.
At Kaly, we make it easy to connect with knowledgeable doctors, physical therapists and other specialists who can evaluate your symptoms and create a customized treatment plan. Our independent care navigators guide you through the process of finding the right providers for your needs. Don’t suffer needlessly – help is available. Sign up for Kaly today to start resolving your sciatica and testicular pain.