Sciatica after a car accident

Describe where the leg symptom travels

The MedlinePlus sciatica overview(opens in a new tab) describes sciatica as pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the leg. Note which side is involved and the route of the symptom. Also note whether sitting, walking, coughing, or back movement changes it.

Do not assume every leg symptom comes from the low back or a disc. Hip, vascular, and other medical problems can produce different patterns.

Leg symptoms often show up in ordinary moments — the drive that suddenly needs a break halfway, or the first steps after sitting that feel unsteady. Write those moments down; they give the exam something concrete to check.

Neurological symptoms that require urgent care

Seek prompt medical care for any of these signs:

• Significant new weakness or foot drop.
• Trouble walking normally.
• Numbness around the groin.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control.
• Rapidly worsening nerve symptoms.

What to bring and describe

Bring the collision history and symptom timing. Add prior emergency or imaging reports, and a record of walking, sitting, and foot-control changes. The exam may show that conservative care, referral, or further testing fits best.

Read disc and nerve pain and back pain after a crash.

Frequently asked questions

More reading — the injury and symptom index, accident-focused care, the knee and hip pain guide, and the first-visit guide.

You’ve read enough to describe it — and that’s all a first call needs.

Call Portsmouth Accident & Injury Center at (740) 876-8394 and describe what changed — in your own words, no diagnosis needed. The office will tell you what to bring, and it will tell you honestly if a different kind of provider should see you first. Prefer to be called back? Use the contact page for scheduling basics.

This page provides general information. It cannot diagnose an injury or replace emergency or medical care.