Sciatic nerve pain—often described as sharp, shooting discomfort radiating from the lower back down the leg—can stem from multiple causes. While structural issues like herniated discs are common culprits, vitamin deficiencies can also play a surprising role. Specifically, vitamin B12 deficiency is most commonly linked to sciatic-like nerve pain and other neuropathic symptoms.

What vitamin deficiency causes sciatic nerve pain.Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health. A lack of B12 can lead to nerve damage, tingling, numbness, and even radiating pain similar to sciatica. In some cases, patients with B12 deficiency experience burning sensations or electric shock-like pain that mimics true sciatic nerve irritation. Vegetarians, vegans, and older adults are at higher risk for B12 deficiency, especially if absorption is compromised.