How is sciatica and lower back pain treated?
Such a patient needs diagnostic imaging with an MRI of the lumbar spine as first choice, and if MRI is precluded, computed tomography scan of the lumbar spine should be ordered.
If the patient is free of neurologic deficits such as muscle weakness, a short tapering dose of steroids is reasonable.
Other options if that fails to help include epidural steroid injection and neuropathic adjuvants such as gabapentin. In most instances conservative management will work, but lingering symptoms may warrant surgical consultation.
