Diagnosis is usually made clinically. In most cases, symptoms often settle within a few weeks. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be advised if symptoms persist or worsen.
Seek early medical attention if pain is not relieved with rest, over-the-counter (OTC) medication, warm/cold packs and activity modification, or if it becomes worse with progressive loss of function including limb weakness, numbness or tingling.
Occasionally, the nerves to the bladder and bowel may be damaged by pressure from a disc or bone spur. This can lead to bowel or bladder incontinence, as well as saddle anaesthesia (numbness over the anal region and inner thigh and calf ).
This is an emergency and immediate medical attention should be sought without delay in the event that this occurs.
