The evaluation of sciatica begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with sciatica may include:

• Difficulty walking
• Muscle wasting:
• Reduced size of the muscles in the legs
• Back tenderness
• Tenderness along the sciatic nerve
• Leg numbness (unilateral):
• Foot numbness
• Leg weakness (unilateral):
• Foot weakness

Tests are not necessary to make the diagnosis of sciatica.

Tests that may be used to evaluate sciatica include:

• X-rays of the spine
• CT scan of the spine
• MRI scan of the spine
• MRI showing the lumbar disks
• MRI of a herniated lumbar disk
• MRI showing a compression fracture at L3
• Electromyogram
• Nerve conduction study
• Myelogram
• Less commonly used due to MRI