Welcome to the EmpowHER community and thank you for reaching out to us for help with your concern.
I do not think your boyfriend's symptoms, beyond the pain, are caused by sciatica.
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. This nerve branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body.
A herniated disk or a bone spur on the spine compresses part to the nerve. This causes inflammation, pain and often some numbness in the affected leg. Swelling of the leg and foot are not a symptom of sciatica.
According to the staff of the Mayo Clinic, most cases resolve with conservative treatments in a few weeks. Medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants, physical therapy, and steroid injections are prescribed. Acupuncture and chiropractics can help. In severe cases, when patients do not respond to these treatments after six weeks, surgery might be considered.
Anonymous, has your boyfriend had a CT scan, or MRI? If not, I strongly suggest you speak with his physician to have one scheduled.
I do not want to scare you, but in rare cases, sciatica is caused by a tumor compressing the sciatic nerve. The symptoms of swelling in the leg and foot suggest a blockage in circulation.
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Hello Anonymous,
Welcome to the EmpowHER community and thank you for reaching out to us for help with your concern.
I do not think your boyfriend's symptoms, beyond the pain, are caused by sciatica.
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. This nerve branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body.
A herniated disk or a bone spur on the spine compresses part to the nerve. This causes inflammation, pain and often some numbness in the affected leg. Swelling of the leg and foot are not a symptom of sciatica.
According to the staff of the Mayo Clinic, most cases resolve with conservative treatments in a few weeks. Medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants, physical therapy, and steroid injections are prescribed. Acupuncture and chiropractics can help. In severe cases, when patients do not respond to these treatments after six weeks, surgery might be considered.
Anonymous, has your boyfriend had a CT scan, or MRI? If not, I strongly suggest you speak with his physician to have one scheduled.
I do not want to scare you, but in rare cases, sciatica is caused by a tumor compressing the sciatic nerve. The symptoms of swelling in the leg and foot suggest a blockage in circulation.
Regards,
April 24, 2014 - 4:52pmMaryann
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