Loic Bullock

Answers to patient questions

• General topics
  Hi, I have a small Hernia (L5-S1) which pushes on the sciatic nerve. The pain is now extended to the knee/calf/foot. Which is the specialist I should get in contact with?

  • You should consult with a spine specialist or an orthopedic surgeon. They can evaluate your hernia at the L5-S1 level and its impact on the sciatic nerve, and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include physical therapy, medications, or in some cases, surgery.

    

    Loic Bullock

• General topics
  Hello, a few days ago I had lower back pain that extended down to my leg. After the pain subsided, I started feeling a slight tingling in my leg and having trouble with my foot—I can't lift it completely. Which doctor should I consult? Do I need to see a general practitioner first, who will then refer me further, or...?"

  • The symptoms you're describing, including lower back pain that extends to your leg, tingling, and difficulty lifting your foot (which sounds like **foot drop**), are concerning and could be indicative of a nerve-related issue, possibly involving the sciatic nerve or a condition like a herniated disc.
    
    Given these symptoms, you should consult a **neurologist** or an **orthopedic specialist** with a focus on spine health. These specialists are well-equipped to evaluate and manage conditions related to nerve impingement, herniated discs, or other spinal issues that might be causing your symptoms.
    
    ### Here’s what you can do:...
    1. **Start with a General Practitioner (GP):** In many healthcare systems, it’s common (or required) to see a GP first. They can perform an initial assessment, possibly order some imaging studies like an MRI or X-ray, and then refer you to the appropriate specialist.
    
    2. **Direct Specialist Consultation:** If your healthcare system allows or if you have direct access, you could see a neurologist or orthopedic specialist directly, especially given the neurological symptoms like tingling and foot drop.
    
    ### Why It's Important:
    - **Neurologist:** Can evaluate nerve function and determine if there's nerve compression or damage.
    - **Orthopedic Specialist (Spine):** Can assess spinal health and any structural issues that could be causing your symptoms.
    
    This condition could require timely intervention to prevent further nerve damage, so I recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Read more

    

    Loic Bullock

• General topics
  hello , i have a nerve sciatic pain , which specialist should i contact please ?

  • Hello! For sciatic nerve pain, you might want to consider consulting a specialist called an "Orthopedic Surgeon" or a "Neurologist." These specialists have expertise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the musculoskeletal system and nervous system, respectively. They can help you determine the cause of your sciatic pain and recommend appropriate treatment options. Always consult a medical professional for personalized advice.

    

    Loic Bullock