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Sciatica Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Sciatica causes symptoms that can range from mild to severe.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Burning, tingling, or a shooting pain down the back of one leg
  • Pain in one leg or buttock that is worse with:
    • Sitting
    • Standing up
    • Coughing
    • Sneezing
    • Straining
  • Weakness or numbness in a leg or foot

More serious symptoms associated with sciatica that may require immediate medical attention include:

  • Progressive weakness in a leg or foot
  • Difficulty walking, standing, or moving
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control
  • Fever, unexplained weight loss, or other signs of illness

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine your back, hips, and legs. The physical exam will include tests for strength, flexibility, sensation, and reflexes.

Other tests may include:

  • X-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones
  • MRI Scan —a test that uses magnetic and radio waves to make pictures of structures inside the body
  • CT Scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body
  • Nerve conduction study —a test in which an electrical current is passed through a nerve to determine the health or disease of that nerve

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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