Tracking Sciatica From The Very Beginning

Before you opt for the diagnosis of a particular medical condition, you need to look for certain indications that point towards the existence of the problem. This is even more relevant in the case of medical conditions like sciatica. There are a host of medical conditions that are characterized by similar symptoms. Thus, tracking the initial indications becomes extremely important.

There are several symptoms or characteristic traits of sciatica that can assist you in identifying the problem.  Sciatica is accompanied with pain in the back or the legs. Generally, sciatic pain stems from the back and reaches the toes. The intensity and severity of pain may vary from one individual to another. While there are some who deal with mild pain, there are others who suffer from extreme pain and even find it difficult to move. The pain can be mild, sharp or even shooting. Some sciatic sufferers also deal with shooting pain in the thighs.

A mild form of numbness may also be accompanied with the pain. This numbness can sometimes worsen, thereby impairing movement. Needles like sensation and cramping in the thighs is also a common symptom. These symptoms can worsen due to activities like laughing, coughing or sneezing. Standing or sitting for long hours too can aggravate the pain further.

Do not just rely on indications
It is important to understand that prognosis is only meant to ascertain whether you need a diagnosis of the problem or not. You cannot take prognosis as a parameter to ascertain the existence of sciatica. If you are currently dealing with all these symptoms, it need not mean that you are suffering from sciatica. There could be other medical conditions that may be responsible for the problem. So, make sure that you are not relying on indications alone. Go in for an appropriate treatment only after the problem has been diagnosed by your health care practitioner.

Diagnosis
If you are dealing with the aforementioned symptoms, a proper diagnosis may be recommended. The reason for the same is that symptoms of sciatica are quite similar to various other medical conditions. So, a proper diagnosis is a must.

Your doctor would conduct a general examination trying to ascertain the cause of the pain. He may enquire about your medical history or any injuries you may have dealt with. In addition, several tests such as X ray, MRI and CT Scan may also be conducted to ascertain the presence of the problem.

To sum up, prognosis is the first and the most crucial step in dealing with sciatica. So, make sure that you study your symptoms well as this will help you treat the problem eventually.