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Have Chronic Sciatica. Temporary Relief From Paracetamol And Glucosamine. Right Medication?

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Posted on Thu, 18 Apr 2013
Question: I have chronic sciatica ....18 months ago felt sharp pain in right back as digging, very sharp! .....had pain aching etc ever since like tooth ache goes all the way down to foot sometimes I can't move I'm locked, have ended up in causality one time. All G P does is suggest paracetamol and try glucosamine which I am doing with limited effect. As a result my mobility is limited (I used to swim 3x4 times a week) and my weight is creeping up. Feeling pretty fed up as I have always been very active and was in good shape for a 68 year old what else can I do? XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (4 hours later)
Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for writing in to Healthcare Magic!
You seem to be having some neurological problem as a cause for your symptoms unless proven otherwise.
The backache radiating to buttocks and legs along with the numbness indicates a serious local cause affecting the spine.
It can be a sciatica or disc prolapse related issue.
You should get a thorough physical and neurological examination by a neurologist and get investigated to point out the exact diagnosis.
You would need CT/MRI spine as suggested after the examination and follow the advise accordingly.
Meanwhile you should avoid awkward postures, should use a hard bed for lying down, use local pain killer spray like one containing diclofenac gel.Paracetamol and tramadol combinations are good for controlling pain and are safe to use, please get them prescribed.
You should take high protein diet and cut down fat and fast foods to compensate for decreased mobility to control body weight.
If you have any further query please let me know I would try to answer it for you.
Wish you a great health!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Ram Choudhary (2 hours later)
Can this referral be done privately as GP seems to think it will go away in a few months! Have tried amytriptyline but it made me dopey,
I had scans which showed ovarian cysts now the focus. Could these be the cause I am told they are the size of golf balls.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (17 hours later)
Hi XXXXXXX
Welcome back to Healthcare Magic Physician's Desk!
I think you should get evaluated by a local orthopedician by whatever feasible method and follow the course of action.
Ovarian cyst is not a cause for such a problem, it can be said only an incidentaloma.
I think it would help you in decision making.
Wish you a great health!
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ram Choudhary

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 2270 Questions

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Have Chronic Sciatica. Temporary Relief From Paracetamol And Glucosamine. Right Medication?

Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for writing in to Healthcare Magic!
You seem to be having some neurological problem as a cause for your symptoms unless proven otherwise.
The backache radiating to buttocks and legs along with the numbness indicates a serious local cause affecting the spine.
It can be a sciatica or disc prolapse related issue.
You should get a thorough physical and neurological examination by a neurologist and get investigated to point out the exact diagnosis.
You would need CT/MRI spine as suggested after the examination and follow the advise accordingly.
Meanwhile you should avoid awkward postures, should use a hard bed for lying down, use local pain killer spray like one containing diclofenac gel.Paracetamol and tramadol combinations are good for controlling pain and are safe to use, please get them prescribed.
You should take high protein diet and cut down fat and fast foods to compensate for decreased mobility to control body weight.
If you have any further query please let me know I would try to answer it for you.
Wish you a great health!