Sciatica is the general term used by many to describe back pain and associated back of the leg pain. Often it is described in terms of pain radiating either above or below the knee.

But what is really going on here?

Well the term itself is rather broad and encompasses several different diagnoses. The Good New Is…that in most cases the sciatica is VERY successfully treated conservatively without the need for serious medical interventions. Meaning no need for imaging, injections, or surgery.

But isn’t imaging necessary to tell (some provider) how to treat the condition?

In most cases ABSOLUTELY NOT. And this is because the majority of imaging only shows normal age related changes. And the medical community is finally starting to acknowledge that these findings they used to associate with sciatica generally do not matter. In less than 5% of back pain related cases is imaging of the spine actually indicated (based on physical exam findings). And this is Excellent news for anyone with back pain or sciatica.

So…then how does a provider know how to treat my issue?

By completing a thorough physical exam, a quality provider will learn how your body responds and be able to prescribe a plan of action to get you out of pain and back to doing what it is you enjoy. The goal is to find that position or movement that begins to either lessen the pain or move the pain up the leg toward the back. Once we discover that, the 1^st step toward success is under way. For many individuals they will note increased pain with sitting, driving, and possibly sleeping based on position. Often these folks will feel at least a bit better with standing or walking.

From that point, once the pain begins to come under control then steps can be taken to prevent it from coming back. Sometimes this process can be difficult or frustrating, but again, the Good News Is, we know the majority of people get better.

If you are tired to living with sciatica (off and on) then now is a great time to take steps to end it now. Take the 1^st step today by filling out this Quick Form to learn more how to free yourself from Sciatica.