What’s the Difference Between Chronic Back Pain and Sciatica?

Question by Murrin: What’s the difference between chronic back pain and sciatica?
I have been experiencing strong and consistent back pain for as long as I can remember (I am 25 now). It starts with a little discomfort in my lower back, and about 20 minutes later, if I don’t take pain medication, my joints will start to ache on one side (my hip, my knee, my ankle). X-rays show some minor scoliosis and a compressed disc (L4 and L5). So far, orthopedic surgeons are reluctant to do anything or even take me seriously because I’m “not old enough to be in a lot of pain.”

My question is, could this be something more than a compressed disc? I’ve heard mention of sciatica but I have no idea what that is. I can usually catch it before it gets too bad, but it takes about 4 pills a day (Excedrin, Advil, etc) and I don’t think that’s a good long term answer.

And, one last question – what can I say to the doctor to get him to take me seriously?

Best answer:

Answer by KK
Sciatica is associated with a nerve, usually being “pinched” or “irritated”. This can occur when there is a back injury, maybe with scoliosis, baby sitting in an awkward position during pregnancy, etc…

Be sure to explain all your symptoms to you doctor once again. Be firm. Do remember, some issues are very difficult to diagnose. Your current doctor may not be experienced in this area. If your doctor truly doesn’t take you seriously, it’s time to fire your doctor. Good luck.

Answer by gorge momma
If you have documented scoliosis and a compressed disc-L4/5, you quite likely have sciatica–pinched nerve at the site of the disc compression–which is causing the pain you feel all the way to your foot. Have you been put on a physical therapy regimen for the compressed disc or fitted for a brace for the scoliosis? I had back pain like yours from about age 28; at age 38, they wanted to fuse my lower spine; I resisted until age 53–what a mistake. I now have permanent chronic pain, “failed back syndrome” and must take very strong pain meds daily. I can no longer function like an average, well person my age. What to say to the arrogant doctor who thinks you’re not old enough to have a lot of pain? “You’re fired!” Try going to a neurosurgeon, getting an MRI to see if there’s more going on (spinal stenosis, for example). Just because you’re young doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be taken seriously. Do you feel like being disabled the rest of your life because of what one jack-ass said to you? You MUST be your own health-care advocate!

Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!

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