Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 10/31/2007

Question
recently i started getting pain in my lower back.  it hurt but nothing unbearable..yesterday while at work(consisting of lifting and pysical labor)the pain spread to my left leg. i have an unbearable shooting pain going down my leg to my foot,causing minor numbness in the foot.  only the left.  this pain in my leg however is unbearable and literally causes me to scream in pain when moved to wrong way or if the pressure of my body weight is put on it.  i know goin the the doctor or E.R. is a logical and nessessary option but i was wondering if you had a clue as to what it might be.  ive asked around and people say it is probally siatic problems. my question is, is the pain im expierencing normal or does it sound like something more serious? thank you

Answer
John,

I cannot provide you with a diagnosis or prognosis over the Internet. I can only answer your inquiry in general.

The symptoms that you are describing is generally consistent with an acute lumbar disc disorder, rather than true sciatic neuropathy.

It is not necessary to present to the emergency department UNLESS you have the inability to urinate; fecal incontinence; impotence; drop-foot on the affected side (complete loss of function of the affected limb); or severe, unremitting, excruciating pain that is unresponsive to conservative care.

You do, however, require proper evaluation and treatment. I do recommend visiting a musculoskeletal-based chiropractor. Most M.D.s are not trained to handle spinal problems, unless you see a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon (but as it has not yet been determined that you are a surgical candidate, seeing a surgeon is probably not required in your case).

You may see your M.D. for pain control medication if needed. An MRI may be necessary for further investigation if you have severe neurological symptoms or the failure to respond to aggressive conservative care.

I hope that you find this answer helpful.