Sciatica diagnosis is mainly based on clinical and physical examination.
SLR test (Straight Leg Raise) it is the chief test in Sciatica diagnosis. The SLR or Lasegue Test is done to find out if an intervertebral disc in the lower back has herniated leading to lower back pain.
- CT scan to see any bony pathology at spinal or neurological levels.
- MRI to see any pathological condition in the spinal cord or soft tissues around and in spine.
- Nerve conduction studies to determine efficiency of functioning of sciatic nerve.
- Myelogram, an X-ray procedure that uses a contrast dye injected between the vertebrae to view the prolapse and herniation of discs better.
