I have had pain in my lower back, left buttock and down my left leg into my calf since 2008 on skiing trip, from then til now pain has been severe, my GP has prescribed analgesia, referred me to physio again and again, ive had acupuncture, i use hot and cold packs etc but never referred me for an MRI. I recently paid private for osteopath and also paid for an MRI scan which shows an L5-S1 disc herniation pressing against my sciatic nerve. Why wont my GP refer me to an Orthopaedic consultant?, is it because there are cash incentives for GPs not to send patients to hospital?
Hi, Welcome to Chat Doctor From the history and procession of your symptoms, it strongly appears a case of vertebral disc herniation, as rightly seen on MRI spine. Accupuncture and Physiotherapy is known to be beneficial to some extent in mild backache, back aches that are mostly due to muscle sprains, etc. However, its utility disc herniation is highly questionable. A surgery is generally indicated in severe disc prolapse. If a patient with symptom profile similar to you, comes to my clinic, I would advise an expert consultation of orthopedic, as proper evaluation of its severity needs to be done for decision regarding further management. Use of analgesics will help to deal with pain, but will not cure the condition. Stop rigorous movements of back and activities, have enough fluids and water. Do not exercise till father orthopedic opinion. Welcome for further suggestions. Chat Doctor.