What are the red flags for sciatica?

Red Flags for Sciatica You Need to Know
Are you suffering from sciatica? It's crucial to be aware of the red flags and know when to seek professional help to avoid long-term issues.
Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica is a trapped nerve in the base of the spine that runs down the back of the leg. It can be extremely painful and debilitating, sometimes lasting up to a year. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
Common Symptoms
Leg Pain: Sciatic pain often manifests as electric shocks, pins and needles, or achiness down the leg.
Prolapsed Disc: A bulging disc can press on the nerve causing sciatica. If the disc bulges out the side (lateral disc), it can often be managed at home with some professional help.
Serious Red Flags
Central Disc Prolapse: When the disc bulges out the back and affects both legs, it could lead to cauda equina syndrome.
Cauda Equina Syndrome: This serious condition involves the compression of nerves at the base of the spine, potentially leading to irreversible paralysis of the legs.
Symptoms:
Saddle Anaesthesia: Numbness in the area that would touch a saddle (groin, buttocks, inner thighs).
Incontinence: Inability to control bladder or bowel movements.
Loss of Sensation: Not feeling your buttocks on a seat or toilet paper when wiping.
Immediate Action
If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. These are emergencies that require urgent care to prevent permanent damage.
At-Home Tests
Slump Test:
Good Leg: Sit and extend the good leg. If lifting the good leg causes pain in either leg, this could indicate a serious issue.
Bad Leg: Lift the leg with sciatic pain. If there’s pain, this helps track the severity and progression of your condition.
Straight Leg Raise:
Have someone lift your leg. Pain at 45 degrees or more indicates tension in the sciatic nerve. Tracking progress weekly can show improvement.
Monitor and Progress
Keep track of these tests to monitor your sciatica. Improvement over time can be a positive indicator of healing.
Learn More
For more tips and exercises, check out my bestselling books: Transform Your Back and The Secret Cure to Back Pain: How to Avoid a Lifetime of Painkillers and Surgery. Available on Amazon.
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Stay healthy,
Dr. Jeremy Andrews
You can get a copy of Jeremy's best selling book The Secret Cure to back Pain here www.amazon.co.uk/Secret-Cure-...
Call us on 01932355529 to book a FREE discovery visit
www.westchiropractic.co.uk