How can i tell if i have siatica or something different?

Leg pain or sciatic?: Many people think that any leg pain is 'sciatica'. Actually, sciatica is more specific: it is pain usually starting in the low back or buttock, on one side only, & often radiating down the back of the leg. Can go down to the knee or lower, but can sometimes wrap around the leg. A good physical exam, including a hands-on osteopathic exam can differentiate the causes & help your dr. Plan treatment.

It's hard: Sciatica typically starts in the buttock and travels down the leg. We a doctor for diagnosis.

Name misused: Sciatica is pain in the distribution of the sciatic nerve. It is usually on one side but can be on both right and left at the same time. Sciatica usually radiates fro the buttock down the back of the thigh int the side of the calf and into the foot. It does not have to be radiating along the entire leg.

Evaluate Low Back: If you are not improving have your doctor order a lumbar spine mri. Many times a herniated disc in the back can cause leg pain especially if you have not improved with the medications and physical therapy. If it is a herniated disc you may need evaluation from a spine specialist to determine what other options might be needed (injections, surgery, etc) to help reduce pain.