Is My Back Pain Caused by Sciatica?

Is Your Back Pain Caused by Sciatica?

Pain shooting down your leg? Numbness or tingling in your foot? You might have sciatica—and it needs a doctor's diagnosis.

But before you go in, try these two self-tests to get armed with knowledge.

Test 1: Seated Straight Leg Raise

1. Sit and lift one leg with your knee straight

2. Pull your toes toward you

3. Bring your chin to your chest

Red flag: Pain or tingling running down the back of your leg past the knee. Compare both legs—sciatica will show a noticeable difference.

For extra pressure: Grab under the chair and pull up while repeating the test.

Test 2: Slouch and Flex

1. Sit and grab under the chair with both hands

2. Pull up, slouch forward, and extend your neck back

3. Note any pain

4. Now flex your neck forward (still slouched and pulling)

Red flag: Pain increases when you flex your neck forward. Likely sign of a herniated or bulging disc.

What's Next?

Got positive results? See your doctor.

Already diagnosed? Check out Bob and Brad's free Sciatica Program. Each video targets specific symptoms, plus free PDF exercises.

These tests are a starting point, not a diagnosis. Always consult your doctor or physical therapist.