Does this sound like sciatica?

[JamieFrasersSassenach]

I have a weak lower back and often suffer with pain. I've had lots of physio treatment over the years. My back has been mildly sore over the past week or two.
I now have pain in both legs - mainly the thighs and calves.
It's a deep aching pain rather than a sharp shooting pain, which is much worse when I am seated than standing.
The worst pain is when I urinate though - it's almost as if the act of emptying my bladder is placing huge pressure on my legs and it really hurts.
Has anyone else had experience of this or something similar and was it just sciatica/ what did you find useful to ease the pain?

It does sound like sciatica. I would ring 111 if you are having bladder issues. It's hard going having it down both sides but if you start to feel numbness or discomfort in your genital area it can be a cause for concern. Not to worry you x

I'd be very careful and seek advice it could (not will!) be cauda equine

Thank you - I don't think it can be cauda equina as I'm not having any problems with urge, continence or numbness - it just feels like I'm having the blood supply painfully cut off to the insides of both legs, worse when I sit and then much worse when I am emptying my bladder - it's weird.
I just assumed with sciatica it would be a sharp or shooting pain in my legs, but this is definitely an aching/squeezing sensation.
I will phone my GP surgery first thing to see if they can fit me in.

Did you manage to see your Dr? How are you feeling?

Sciatica is caused by pressure on the nerves and is the sharpest kind of nerve pain, totally different from a deep dull ache.

Also - sciatica is a symptom of something else causing pressure, rather than a diagnosis in itself.

That said, the pain affecting your bladder could be serious and I would get it checked out right away.

@fandjango Thank you for asking - I didn't call the GP in the end as it is much better today - I used a knee support cushion last night while I slept and that has really helped. I'll see how it is again tomorrow.

Ive got sciatica at the moment after hurting my back a couple of weeks ago. Only 1 leg is affected. The pain is very much intermittent, is far worse when I get up in the morning - I can barely get to the bathroom! I’d describe it as electric shocks that take my breath away. As I’m sitting here now, there’s no pain at all.