When asked, “What should I do if I think I have sciatica?” most doctors and back specialists will encourage patients to schedule an office visit. During this visit, a thorough medical assessment will be performed to diagnose the spinal condition that is causing the sciatic nerve to become compressed and to determine the proper course of treatment. Before contacting a medical professional, those who think they may have sciatica may first want to familiarize themselves with the symptoms that are typically associated with this spinal condition.
Symptoms
Though the symptoms of sciatica can vary considerably, most patients experience the following in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, and feet:
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Tingling
- Burning pain or shooting pain
- Dull or sharp pains in the thigh
- Difficulty walking, standing or sitting
Most patients experience these symptoms gradually and find that they only affect one side of the body.
Diagnosing Sciatica
Those who are experiencing the above symptoms should contact a doctor or back specialist to confirm a positive diagnosis for this spinal condition. Most doctors will begin the office visit with a series of questions to assess the patient’s symptoms, their duration, and severity. A physical exam may also be performed to test for reflexes and range of motion. In some cases, a CT scan, X-ray or MRI may be ordered.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis for sciatica has been confirmed, most patients will be prescribed a conservative course of treatment which may include over-the-counter or prescription pain medications, exercise, and physical therapy. Some doctors may recommend open back surgery to treat the spinal condition (such as a herniated disc) that is compressing the sciatic nerve. Before committing to the complications and risks that can be associated with invasive surgery, patients may want to consider the safe and effective endoscopic procedures performed by Laser Spine Institute. Our minimally invasive procedures utilize local anesthesia and IV sedation. Contact Laser Spine Institute to schedule a complimentary review of an MRI or CT scan.
