Diagnosing Sciatica
If you suspect you have sciatica, reach out to your doctor for a diagnosis.
Causes
Sciatica is usually caused by a herniated disc that compresses or inflames the sciatic nerve. Other causes can include:
- Abscess (localized infection)
- Blood clot
- Neuropathy
- Obesity
- Poor posture or prolonged sitting
- Tumor
Diagnosis
Your doctor can help determine if sciatica is the source of your pain using one or more of the following tests:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan—to produce detailed images to help diagnose spine conditions.
- Electromyography (EMG)/nerve conduction study (NCS)—to test how your muscles respond to nerve signals and how quickly signals travel through your nerves.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—to produce detailed pictures of your spinal nerves.
- Myelogram—an X-ray of the spine that uses contrast dye to examine the spinal cord and spinal canal.
- X-rays—of the spine.
