When I walk, I feel a pain in my right hamstring. Also, when I sit and try to straighten my right leg, I experience the same pain. How do I determine if it is a torn muscle or a siatic nerve problem? Thank you
: Thank youSciatica is pain, and inflammation, of the Sciatic Nerve, so you would feel a stinging and/ or burning sensation rather than the normal type of pain one feels with a muscle strain. Also, the sensation would tend to radiate, anywhere from the upper buttocks, all the way down to the toes. Sciatica is a much more serious problem, and should be evaluated professionally, by either a doctor or PT for possible treatment. The best thing you can do in the meantime is apply ice packs (20 min each time; 3-4 times daily), and take one of the OTC anti-inflammatory medications, such as Motrin or Advil (3X daily). Let us know how you do, and good luck.
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May PT
: Thank youSciatica is pain, and inflammation, of the Sciatic Nerve, so you would feel a stinging and/ or burning sensation rather than the normal type of pain one feels with a muscle strain. Also, the sensation would tend to radiate, anywhere from the upper buttocks, all the way down to the toes. Sciatica is a much more serious problem, and should be evaluated professionally, by either a doctor or PT for possible treatment. The best thing you can do in the meantime is apply ice packs (20 min each time; 3-4 times daily), and take one of the OTC anti-inflammatory medications, such as Motrin or Advil (3X daily). Let us know how you do, and good luck.