Sciatica

Question 1

what is the definition of sciatica?

Answer 1

where the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back to your feet, is irritated or compressed

Question 2

what is the aetiology of sciatica?

Answer 2

Herniated disk
Bone spur on the spine
Spinal stenosis

Question 3

what are the risk factors for sciatica?

Answer 3

Older age 
Occupation 
Sitting 
Obesity 
Diabetes

Question 4

what are the key presentations of sciatica?

Answer 4

Pain radiating from lower back, hip, buttocks and down each leg
Only one side of body
Inflammation
Numbness

Question 5

what are the first line and gold standard investigations for sciatica?

Answer 5

X-ray
MRI
CT scan
EMG

Question 6

how is sciatica treated?

Answer 6

NSAIDs
Muscle relaxants 
Narcotics 
Tricyclic antidepressants 
Anti-seizure meds