What is sciatica?
Sciatica describes pain travelling from the lower back into the buttock or leg along the course of a nerve. Tingling, numbness or weakness can occur, but symptoms alone do not identify the cause.
Why is an MRI not the whole answer?
A scan may show changes that do not explain a person's symptoms. Clinicians consider the pain pattern, neurological examination and impact on function, and use imaging when it is likely to affect management.
Is surgery always needed?
No. NICE advises considering a surgical opinion when non-surgical care has not improved pain or function and imaging findings are consistent with sciatica. Decisions are individual and include discussion of alternatives and risks.
When is it urgent?
Severe lower back pain with new bladder or bowel control changes, numbness around the saddle area, or worsening weakness needs urgent emergency assessment for possible serious nerve compression.
Sources for further reading
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