by Paul H » Fri Jan 22, 2010 1:09 am
Hi,
I had a herniated disc and had very similar symptons i.e. sciatic pain and total loss of calf strength in one leg (I was in the best form of my life at the time as well but thats another story of bitterness and anger).
I was referred to a spinal surgeon who wanted to cut open my back as physio did nothing for me. In the end, I saw an amazing osteopath who sorted out the loss of strength in one session. You need to get the loss of strength sorted asap as I was told the nerve can die if left too long.
You need to see a spinal surgeon to get an MRI scan done but I would think very carefully about surgery even just an epidural. From what I understand, this is a quick fix with long term implications and very nasty risks.
Im sorry to say that this issue will never go away completely whatever you decide to do - the pain will settle down but you will have to be careful for the rest of your life. You need to do core strengthing exercises/pliates when you are able to. I find swimming with Mr Snoup's wife helpful.
Inversion tables are very good for sciatic pain and I have one you could borrow if you like.
Happy to discuss further if you like.