3 weeks ago

Sciatica vs Slipped Disc: Doctor Explains The Difference

Sometimes your back or leg hurts and people talk about two big words: sciatica and slipped disc.

They sound similar, but they mean different things.

Think of your spine like a tower of building blocks, with soft cushions between them.

A 'slipped disc' is when one of those cushions gets squashed and pushes out, even though it doesn't really 'slip.'

If that squashed cushion presses on a nerve, it can hurt.

'Sciatica' is just the name for that pain when it travels from your back down your leg, like a long wire sending a buzz.

But sciatica can also happen for other reasons, not only a squashed cushion.

Doctors figure out which one you have by asking questions and testing your muscles and reflexes.

They usually only take special pictures (an MRI) if the problem is serious.

Most people get better with exercises and small amounts of rest, not by staying in bed all day.

Key facts

Sciatica: Symptom: pain following the sciatic nerve, the body's largest nerve, usually on one side
Slipped disc: Herniated or prolapsed disc; the soft core bulges out and presses on nerve endings
Other causes of sciatica: Spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, piriformis syndrome, spondylolisthesis
Key symptom difference: Disc herniation alone: localised back pain and stiffness; with nerve compression: pain below the knee with tingling, numbness, or weakness
Conditions mimicking sciatica: Hip arthritis, sacroiliac joint disease, vascular problems, muscle strain, nerve diseases
Diagnosis: History, physical exam, muscle strength, reflexes, sensation, gait, Straight Leg Raise; MRI only for severe cases
Red flag symptoms: Foot weakness, inability to move toes, saddle numbness, loss of bowel or bladder control
Treatment: Pain management, physiotherapy, activity changes and exercises; surgery for progressive weakness, neurological deficit, or continued pain

NDTV · 3 weeks ago