What is the course of the sciatic nerve?

A combination of 5 nerve roots that exit from inside the lower lumbar and upper sacral spine—L4, L5, S1, S2, and S3—forms the sciatic nerve. These 5 nerves group together deep in the buttock, near the front surface of the piriformis muscle, and combine to form the single large, thick sciatic nerve.

Can a MRI show sciatica nerve?

The cause of sciatic nerve pain is usually diagnosed using an MRI. Patients are not exposed to radiation. In addition, this procedure causes no pain and requires no recovery time.

Which muscles does sciatic nerve supply?

The undivided sciatic nerve innervates the 4 hamstring muscles and the short head of the biceps femoris muscle along the back of the thigh. The nerve also partially supplies the adductor magnus muscle along the inner front side of the thigh.

What specialist is best for sciatica?

A neurologist, or physician who specializes in the nervous system, is the best person to manage severe sciatica. Your primary doctor may refer you to a specialist in such cases. Approximately 40% of people will experience sciatica in their lifetimes.

What is severe pain in the leg along the course of the sciatic nerve called?

If you have “sciatica,” you experience mild to severe pain anywhere along the path of the sciatic nerve – that is, anywhere from the lower back, through the hips, buttocks and/or down your legs.

How is MRI done for sciatica?

How an MRI Scan Works to Diagnose Back Pain Causes. A lumbar spine MRI scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. An MRI scanner is a large tube that contains powerful magnets. You lie inside the tube during the scan.

Does an MRI show nerve inflammation?

An MRI may be able help identify structural lesions that may be pressing against the nerve so the problem can be corrected before permanent nerve damage occurs. Nerve damage can usually be diagnosed based on a neurological examination and can be correlated by MRI scan findings.

What will a neurologist do for sciatica?

Because it is a nerve causing the pain, many people will seek help from a neurologist to relieve their sciatica. A neurologist will likely perform diagnostic testing using x-rays or MRIs to identify the root of the issue and develop a plan for treatment.

Is sciatica a serious condition?

Although most people recover fully from sciatica, often without treatment, sciatica can potentially cause permanent nerve damage. Seek immediate medical attention if you have: Loss of feeling in the affected leg. Weakness in the affected leg.