How is Sciatica Diagnosed?
Persistent pain in the back or lower back is often due to sciatica. It could be a mild discomfort that one can ignore or excruciating pain disturbing routine life.
In any case, a sciatica x-ray is necessary to diagnose and begin treatment. Between 10 and 40% of people in the US report experiencing sciatica pain in their lifetime. This article will explore the available diagnosis methods for sciatica and its treatment options.
Defining Sciatica:
Sciatica refers to nerve pain that is caused due to injury to the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a vital nerve in the body that connects the lower back, hips, and legs. It runs from the buttock area to just below the knee.
It is the longest nerve that is comprised of five nerve roots, which further branch out into other nerves. These nerves continue to the legs, feet, and toes.
Any injury or irritation to the sciatic or related nerves can result in pain and disturb everyday functions.
Sciatica is often used to describe pain in the back or legs. However, real injury to the sciatic nerve is rare and can result in serious consequences, such as the inability to walk.
People who suffer from sciatica may report feeling mild to severe pain in the sciatic nerve. It could be a constant pain or in waves or jolts. Some people report experiencing a piercing or sharp pain.
Diagnosis of Sciatica:
If you are experiencing pain in your lower back or legs that does not seem to go away, you must visit your doctor. Additionally, you may have to get a sciatic nerve x-ray if your doctor suggests.
The first step in diagnosing sciatica includes reviewing your medical history and symptoms. The physical exam conducted by your physician will help determine if you have sciatica or general pain.
To determine your spinal strength, your GP may ask you to walk. Walking on your toes and heels will further help reveal your calf-muscle strength.
Another test conducted by physicians includes the straight leg raise test before they opt for a sciatica x-ray. In this test, you will be required to lie down straight on your back and slowly raise your legs.
The physician will then determine the point at which your pain begins. This helps identify the affected nerves and if one of the disks is affected or not. Other stretches conducted by the examiner can help identify muscle strength and flexibility.
Depending on what your examination reveals, your doctor may recommend a sciatica x-ray or imaging for sciatica test.
Types of Imaging for Sciatica Tests:
The following tests are used to generate a diagnosis for sciatica:
Sciatic Nerve x-ray:
An x-ray is a simple, painless, quick procedure to identify sciatica. It is performed by an x-ray technologist who positions your spine below the x-ray machine.
It captures multiple images of the bones and surrounding areas. The results are not as detailed but help detect bone spurs and tumors that may be affecting your sciatic nerve.
CT scan for Sciatica:
Another procedure to identify sciatica pain is a CT scan for sciatica. It is a 360-degree scan of your spine, surrounding tissues, and vertebrae.
A CT scan may take between 10 and 20 minutes, during which you will be required to lie inside the scanner while it takes images of your body.
The doctor may ask for a myelogram in some instances. For a more detailed scan, a special contrast dye is administered to the spine before the CT scan for sciatica.
This facilitates the doctor to rule out the cause of sciatica which may include cysts, herniated discs, or tumors, among other conditions.
MRI Scans:
Some doctors also use an MRI scan for the diagnosis of sciatica. MRI scans give high-definition images of the bones and tissues.
The scan relies on radio waves and magnetic fields to take images as opposed to other scans that are based on radiation. It is safe imaging for sciatica technique that gives accurate results.
EMG Test:
EMG test monitors the muscles’ response to electrical impulses from the nerves. It can detect the pressure caused on the sciatic nerve.
This test is performed by attaching several electrodes to your skin and applying small amounts of electricity. During the process, a computer is used to measure the speed of the signal as it passes from one electrode to the next.
This is the first step of the EMG Test and is called the nerve conduction study.
The other test step is the needle electromyogram, which records the electrical signals as needles are inserted to contract muscles.
The needles used for the test are thin and small, causing minimal pain. An EMG test can take between half an hour to one-and-a-half hours.
Treatments for Sciatica:
In most cases, sciatica can be treated through self-care, which aims to reduce pain and increase mobility. Sciatica pain can go away over time,
but other treatment options are recommended if it persists. Generally, you may be able to deal with sciatica through the following:
Use of Ice And/Or Hot Packs:
The use of ice and hot packs is effective for treating sciatica pain. Applying the ice pack for 20 minutes several times a day to the affected area is enough.
After a few days, switch to the hot pack. If the pain persists, you can switch between the two packs daily and use the one that is most effective.
Performing Exercise and Muscle Stretches:
To relieve your lower back pain, learn proper stretches to relieve the pain and perform them regularly. Exercises that help strengthen the core muscles and build general strength may also be effective.
Using Over-the-Counter Medicines
Over-the-counter medicines can help reduce pain and swelling. However, consult your physician before choosing the medicines as they may contain side effects.
If you’ve been experiencing sciatica and taking care of yourself but don’t feel a difference in pain, perhaps it is time to consult your GP and get your sciatic x-ray.
Once that’s conducted, the cause will be clearer, and you can take the right treatment. If the pain hasn’t gone away in six weeks, other treatments to consider include:
Going for Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps reduce the pressure on the nerves through exercises that target relevant muscles. A physical therapist will be able to help you with an exercise program that includes exercises to improve muscle flexibility.
Working with a physical therapist can help you customize your exercises, and they can recommend stretches and workouts that strengthen your legs, abdomen, and back.
Getting Spinal Injections:
Spinal injections are administered under general anesthesia to help reduce pain and swelling of the affected nerve roots. It may provide short-term relief. However, you should be aware of the risk of these injections and how many you can receive.
Alternative Therapies:
You can also go for alternative therapies to manage and treat sciatica, becoming popular. Alternative therapies include spinal manipulation by a licensed chiropractor, acupuncture, or yoga.
Conclusion:
Sciatica can be serious and painful, affecting daily life functions if not diagnosed and treated properly. If pain in your lower back persists, make sure to get a sciatica x-ray and consult your GP for treatment.