Sciatica

Question 1

What is sciatica?

Answer 1

A collection of symptoms

• Pain
• Numbness
• Tingling

Caused by a compression of the sciatic nerve

Question 2

What is the most common cause of sciatica?

What part of the disc is responsible?

Answer 2

Posterolateral disc protrusion

nucelus pulposus is most common site of herniation

Question 3

What can be a triggering factor?

Answer 3

Heavy lifting

Strenuous physical activity

Question 4

Sciatica is more likely to be unilateral. If it is bilateral what condition should you be thinking of?

Answer 4

Cauda equina syndrome

Question 5

Invx aren’t usually required but what movement can you get the patient to do that if they have sciatica will make it more painful?

Answer 5

Straight leg raise

good for exams - get the feeling not done so much in real life

Question 6

After how long should sciatica resolve itself?

If it’s not resolved after this time what should be done?

Answer 6

6-8weeks with physio and analgesia

Refer to a specialist