Scans & Tests · Sciatica

Scans and tests your GP or consultant may recommend for Sciatica

This is information about which scans and tests may be used to assess Sciatica, and what each one is: not a recommendation. Your clinician decides which scan or test, if any, you need. Prices below are typical UK private ranges; enter your postcode to see the NHS wait near you.

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Usually no scan is needed

Sciatica is normally diagnosed from your symptoms and an examination. NICE advises against routine imaging for back pain and sciatica, because scans often show changes like disc wear that are common in people with no pain and that do not change treatment.

MRI

Used only if it would change your management: mainly if severe symptoms persist beyond several weeks and something like surgery is being weighed, or a serious cause is suspected.

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to build detailed pictures of soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, cartilage, discs and the brain. It uses no radiation.

How long: Usually 15 to 45 minutes, lying still inside a tunnel-shaped scanner.

Good for: Soft-tissue and joint detail: ligament and cartilage injuries, the spine and discs, and the brain.

Typical UK private cost: £300 to £1145. Usually bookable within days.

Sources: NICE (NG59 / QS155), NHS. [1] (opens in new tab) [2] (opens in new tab) [3] (opens in new tab)

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Wait or Pay is independent and is not the NHS. NHS waits are from DM01 diagnostics data. Nothing here is medical advice; your clinician decides which scan, if any, you need.

How long will you really wait, and how could you go sooner?

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