I just got sciatica. i have si joint issues but this is on the non affected side. so joint on other side almost resolved. can i just see pt or do i need imaging?

Start with PT: Physical therapy is a great place to start. If it is not resolving, consider a medical evaluation.

See Osteopath: 20's female ? sciatica diagnosis & treatment. Osteopaths are expert at evaluating musculoskeletal integrity & various causes of sciatica, which is type of pain pattern, & which has several potential causes. Particular attention should be given to sacroiliac joint; dysfunction of SIJ arouses sciatica. Young females should investigate Brighton Criteria to check for Joint Hypermobility Syndrome.

Not initally: Sciatica usually responds to conservative medical treatment. Imaging studies not indicated unless fails to respond to medication or is severe and causing muscle weakness. Physical therapy is usually not part of primary treatment, which consists of: anti-inflammatory medication such as NSAIDS(or initially corticosteroids) and gabapentin or Lyrica (pregabalin). For info on back pain SEE: bit.ly/1wCMDpb

Imaging not needed: For someone at your age with sciatica, who is able to walk and having no problems with bowel or bladder control, no trauma, no fever, no abnormal weight loss, imaging is not helpful and often leads to unneeded expense. PT usually helps. Watch this video for more info: http://youtu.be/BOjTegn9RuY?list=FLpWkfClm1cGzPMRYCaSYlYg