How Can Urgent Care Help with Sciatica Pain?

Sciatica is a term used to describe the pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. In most cases, sciatica affects only one side of the body. The discomfort caused by sciatica is the result of nerve compression, usually due to a herniated disc, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine.

Yes, urgent care doctors can help you manage sciatica. You should visit urgent care if you notice sudden, severe, or persistent discomfort or if you cannot wait for a regular doctor’s appointment. Urgent care clinics are equipped to provide initial assessment and treatment to alleviate the discomfort associated with sciatica.

Our experts can offer medications, advice on physical therapy exercises, and referrals for specialist care if needed. For chronic or recurrent sciatica, a follow-up with a primary care physician or a specialist, such as an orthopedic doctor or a neurologist, may be necessary for comprehensive management.

When you come in with sciatica symptoms, the doctor will go through several steps to accurately diagnose the problem. Your healthcare provider will ask about the onset of symptoms, the location of the pain, and any activities that may have triggered the pain. They will also ask about previous injuries and existing health conditions that may contribute to the symptoms.

The doctor will perform a physical exam to check for signs of sciatica. They will assess your muscle strength and range of motion. If the diagnosis is unclear or if the symptoms are severe, the doctor may order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, electromyography (EMG), or CT scans.

Urgent care doctors can provide several treatments to address sciatica pain, such as:

Medications – Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain caused by sciatica. In some cases, stronger prescription medications may be recommended. If muscle spasms are contributing to the pain, muscle relaxants may be prescribed.
Corticosteroid injections – In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation around the irritated nerve.
Physical therapy – Urgent care providers can offer guidance on specific exercises and stretches to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

In addition, if the sciatica is severe or persistent, your urgent care provider may refer you to a specialist, such as a pain management doctor or an orthopedist, for further evaluation and treatment.

When you visit an urgent care clinic for sciatica pain, you will have to complete some paperwork regarding your medical history and insurance information. Once it’s your turn to see the doctor, you will be brought to a private room. The provider will ask about the location, intensity, and duration of your pain, as well as whether you are experiencing any accompanying symptoms, such as numbness or weakness.

Depending on the findings of the initial evaluation, the provider may order imaging tests to determine the cause of the sciatic nerve compression. After the doctor pinpoints the root cause of your symptoms, they will develop a treatment plan to address your discomfort as promptly as possible. Sciatica treatment may include medications for pain relief, muscle relaxants, physical therapy exercises, or other interventions.

Toward the end of your visit, the doctor will give you instructions for managing your symptoms at home and advise you on when to seek follow-up care. If necessary, they will refer you to a specialist for ongoing management. For prompt evaluation and sciatica treatment, visit Priority Urgent Care in Connecticut. We serve patients from Ellington CT, Unionville CT, East Haven CT, Cromwell CT, Oxford CT, Newington CT, East Windsor CT, Somers CT, Burlington CT, Canton CT, Branford CT, New Haven CT, Middletown CT, Rocky Hill CT Seymour CT, Middlebury CT, Hartford CT, Addison CT, and BEYOND!