HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Numbness In Foot And Leg When Diagnosed With Sciatica?

I have a bad case of sciatica, for a little more than 2 mos. I have numbness in right foot and sevesr leg and lower back pain. my right foot also hurts and feels swollen. today my dr. prescribed gabapentin. is this a good thing? I just read about it and I have my doubts, it sounds like pretty strong stuff.
Wed, 18 Nov 2015
Report Abuse
Diabetologist,  's  Response
Hi,

Thanks for your question.
After going through your question, I can understand your concern.

Sciatica is due compression of nerve root.
Which causes symptoms of pain, muscle stiffness, numbness in the area of nerve which is compressed.

Gabapentin helps in relieving these symptoms. Usually it is well tolerated drug without much side effects. Sleepiness is one of the side effect.

You should consult orthopedic surgeon as there is a need for detailed clinical examination including neurological evaluation. Depending upon it there may be need for MRI of lumbosacral spine. So that exact severity of disease can be assessed. Depending upon it further appropriate decision can be taken.

Bed rest, physiotherapy under observation of physiotherapist, gabapentin, pain killer with muscle relaxant may help.

Hope this helps you, if so do vote as helpful.
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Numbness In Foot And Leg When Diagnosed With Sciatica?

Hi, Thanks for your question. After going through your question, I can understand your concern. Sciatica is due compression of nerve root. Which causes symptoms of pain, muscle stiffness, numbness in the area of nerve which is compressed. Gabapentin helps in relieving these symptoms. Usually it is well tolerated drug without much side effects. Sleepiness is one of the side effect. You should consult orthopedic surgeon as there is a need for detailed clinical examination including neurological evaluation. Depending upon it there may be need for MRI of lumbosacral spine. So that exact severity of disease can be assessed. Depending upon it further appropriate decision can be taken. Bed rest, physiotherapy under observation of physiotherapist, gabapentin, pain killer with muscle relaxant may help. Hope this helps you, if so do vote as helpful.