{"id":7410,"date":"2022-05-31T05:51:37","date_gmt":"2022-05-31T05:51:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aqmdi.com\/?p=7410"},"modified":"2022-05-31T05:51:37","modified_gmt":"2022-05-31T05:51:37","slug":"how-is-sciatica-diagnosed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aqmdi.com\/how-is-sciatica-diagnosed\/","title":{"rendered":"How is Sciatica Diagnosed? Imaging Tests For Sciatica & Treatments"},"content":{"rendered":"
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.<\/p>\n
In any case, a sciatica x-ray<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Any injury or irritation to the sciatic or related nerves can result in pain and disturb everyday functions.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Depending on what your examination reveals, your doctor may recommend a sciatica x-ray or imaging for sciatica test.<\/p>\n The following tests are used to generate a diagnosis for sciatica:<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\nDefining Sciatica:<\/h2>\n
Diagnosis of Sciatica:<\/h2>\n
Types of Imaging for Sciatica Tests:<\/h2>\n
Sciatic Nerve x-ray:<\/h2>\n
CT scan for Sciatica:<\/h2>\n