A 39-year-old member asked:
How can i tell the difference between sciatica caused by a herniated disc or by piriformis syndrome?
3 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Daniel Elskensanswered
37 years experience
Piriformis/sciatica: Piriformis syndrome is rare, usually secondary to trauma, and can be distinguished on physical exam by a competent spine specialist. In difficult clinical cases, MRI or other diagnostic testing such as emg/ncv may help pinpoint the source of nerve compression.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Brian Leanswered
Pain Management 19 years experience
Back pain: The back pain can be caused by muscle strain, spinal stenosis, ruptured disc, nerve impingement ...
Both herniated disc and piriformis syndrome can cause symptoms consistent with sciatica.
You should seek help from pain management doctor, physiatrist or neurologist. From physical examination and radiological tests, we can distinguish the cause of your pain.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Qamar Khananswered
Pain Management 19 years experience
Get MRI: It will tell you the story regarding a herniated disc or not.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 4, 2016
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