If you suspect you may be suffering from sciatica, you’ll want to visit a medical professional for lasting relief.
While initial at-home remedies like learning how to massage sciatica trigger points may provide you with some relief for a while, this doesn’t always mean that the underlying condition has improved and you’ll likely experience symptoms again in the future.
In such cases, you might consider professional care.
The question is: What doctor to see for sciatica?
What Doctor to See for Sciatica?
Most people, feel comfortable starting with their primary care physician at the first sign of sciatica symptoms.
Your primary care physician will likely recognize the symptoms and may prescribe rest, painkillers, and some home remedies like heat or cold for sciatica.
Some physicians will send you for diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI for lower back pain sciatica, to better understand your pain or to rule out some conditions.
You can also see a chiropractor. They can perform a physical examination to identify any issues with your spine or recommend the correct diagnostic imaging.
Once your chiropractor understands the cause of your sciatica, they can start developing an appropriate treatment plan.
Note that how many treatments for sciatica with a chiropractor will depend on your condition.
In addition to a chiropractor, your sciatica team may involve other medical providers who specialize in the condition.
Because a nerve is at the center of sciatica pain, a neurologist is a good addition to your healthcare team as they are able to perform more in-depth diagnostic testing.
In many cases, neurologists will try and take a conservative, non-invasive approach by partnering with your chiropractor.
If your condition is severe or doesn’t improve over time, you may consult a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon.
Surgery is usually the last resort, such as when the pain severely impacts the quality of life or if the nerve is damaged.
Loss of bowel or bladder function is also an indicator of surgery.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All information contained on this website is for general information purposes only.
