Does anyone else get /have sciatica? I’ve had a sore lower back for a long time now but just the last 2 days, my legs hurt aswell. In the front top of my thighs and in my shins. It’s almost like it feels like someone is pulling on my nerves or something. I can’t get into my doctor for a few days but I googled it and sciatica is what popped up. How do you treat it? Any info appreciated. Thankyou
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This is my right now too. I have 2 bulging discs. I was given a form for an mri and injection for it. Something in food always flares it up. I do some bending stretches and I also sleep on the side with a pillow between my legs else there is too much pressure on the nerve and hurts during the night also. Dr will organise a lumbar cr scan prob and then mri.
I did during pregnancy, went to a physiotherapist and the info they gave me cleared it up
I work in a physio practice. I'm the practice manager so I can't give medical advice but I can offer the following:
You can see a physio without a referral from your doctor. The physio can send you for xrays, ultrasounds and CT's but not MRI's. A referral for an MRI must come from a GP or specialist, however by going to the physio first, they can do some tests to determine what is going on and write a letter to your GP requesting approval for an MRI. If the results are something on the more serious side (eg bulging disc of nerve impingement), your GP may also issue you with an Allied Health Treatment Plan (aka Care Plan) so you can get 5 visits under Medicare. (The doctor may tell you they are bulk billed but please check with your chosen practice to see if they charge any gap fees as every practice is different.) Again, if it is on the serious side please know it won't be a quick and easy fix. It will take time to recover. You can help your recovery by doing the exercises you are given by the physio.