What is Sciatica? Sciatica is a condition that involves compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, hence its name. This leads to sharp, aching or burning pains in the lower back that can travel down the back of the thigh and even past the knee following the path of the sciatic nerve. You may also experience neurological symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness and other altered sensations. Research shows an incidence of 10-40% of the population will experience sciatica at…
The lumbar disc acts as a shock absorber in our lower back and as a result, is subject to trauma. 80% of us at some point in our life will suffer from low back pain. When the lumbar disc is implicated, it often bulges and pushes on nerves which elicits pain and disability. Disc injury can be categorised according to its severity by the following terminology: Bulge - A mild distortion of the disc without disruption Protrusion - A moderate…
When someone has sustained an injury or is experiencing pain, it is pretty typical for a doctor or other health professional to refer this person for diagnostic imaging scans, such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI. Copies of imaging scans or reports are often given to patients. When received, these reports can be long and detailed, full of medical jargon and findings described as “a little smudgy.” What is the purpose of X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs? How can you get the…