Sciatica (radicular pain)
Specialty: Neurology.
Why it occurs
- Lumbar disc herniation
- Foraminal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
Initial workup
Examination (Lasègue, strength, reflexes); MRI only for red flags or refractory symptoms.
red flags
Saddle anesthesia, urinary retention or progressive motor deficit → cauda equina.
Standard management
- Analgesia (NSAID/paracetamol) — early mobilization
- Neuromodulator — yes neuropathic pain
Educational guidance for study. It is NOT a prescription recommendation. The actual choice depends on the cause, the patient, and current guidelines.
- Area
- Neurology
- Listed causes
- 3
- Treatment options
- 2