If you think you may have sciatica in your lower back or legs, here are quick tests to identify the source as from the spine (radiculopathy) or muscles deep to your glutes (piriformis syndrome).
Testing for the source of low back pain and sciatica (radiculopathy):
Sit in a chair put your right ankle on your left knee. Does your right knee stick up in the air? Accompanied by a left sciatica, the source of your pain is a bulging disc in your lower back. That can be relieved by stretching and massage therapy.
Now switch, put your left ankle on your right knee. Does your left knee stick up in the air? Accompanied by a right sciatica, the source of your pain is a bulging disc in your lower back, also. That can be relieved by stretching and massage therapy.
Which ever is higher when you do this test, is due to an improperly functioning muscle on your lower spine causing pain.
Testing for the source of low back pain and sciatica (piriformis syndrome):
Lay flat on your back, if your foot rolls laterally on the same side as your sciatica, it is due to piriformis syndrome. Once again, we look at stretching and massage.
Our next blog post will discuss proper treatment options through exercise and self care.
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