Understanding Lumbar Spine & Sciatica
Lumbar disc disorders, lower back pain and radiating leg symptoms. Symptoms and treatment choices differ from person to person. Specialist evaluation considers the patient's medical history, neurological signs, physical examination, scans when appropriate, and individual goals.
What happens at a consultation?
The doctor may review when symptoms began, whether there is pain, numbness, weakness, reduced movement or any new neurological change. Existing MRI, CT or X-ray reports may help, but investigations should be interpreted along with clinical findings.
Possible treatment approaches
Not every spinal or neurological condition requires surgery. Depending on the findings, options may include monitoring, appropriate medicines, rehabilitation, targeted procedures or specialist surgery. Risks, benefits and alternatives should be discussed with the clinician.
When is emergency assessment necessary?
New bladder or bowel problems, loss of sensation around the saddle area, worsening weakness, serious injury, fever with severe spinal pain or sudden changes in consciousness may need urgent emergency medical care.