Local or radiating pain
Distribution, aggravating factors, rest, cough, position and variability.
FRLow-back pain & sciatica · Geneva
Assessment of low-back pain and sciatica in Geneva
Conservative care distinguishing local back pain, radiating symptoms, neurological sensitivity, load capacity and findings requiring medical referral.
Rue de Fribourg 7 · 1201 Geneva
✓More than 20 years of clinical practice✓ASCA-recognised therapist✓NVS Class A · ISPRM
01
Low-back pain is not simply a disc image
Low-back pain may be local or accompanied by buttock or leg pain. Sciatica describes a symptom presentation; examination clarifies distribution, strength, sensation and related movements.
A disc protrusion or degeneration on MRI does not automatically explain pain intensity. Imaging must be related to history, neurological signs and function.
Care may combine movement strategies, manual therapy, medical massage, neurosegmental work and graded loading. Goals are defined with the patient.
02 · IMG CLINICAL REASONING
What the assessment distinguishes
Safety comes first, followed by a functional classification of the presentation.
Neurological function
Strength, sensation and neural tension signs when relevant.
Mechanical capacity
Walking, bending, extension, sitting, lifting and load tolerance.
Urgency
Bladder or bowel change, saddle numbness, rapidly progressive deficit, fever or severe trauma.
03 · CLINICAL PATHWAY
Progression towards activity
Movement level is adapted to irritability and neurological status.
Screen
Identify situations requiring medical assessment.
Modulate
Reduce factors sustaining pain and protection.
Rebuild
Develop mobility, control and load capacity.
Reintegrate
Return to work, walking, sport and meaningful activity.
04 · INDICATIONS
Presentations commonly assessed
- Acute or persistent low-back pain without red flags
- Buttock pain or symptoms into the leg
- Stiffness and reduced tolerance after a pain episode
- Graded return to work or sport
05 · FAQ
Low-back pain and sciatica questions
01Does a disc herniation require surgery?＋
Not automatically. The decision depends on neurological deficit, progression, pain and medical review.
02Should I stay in bed?＋
Prolonged rest is generally not the goal. Activity is adapted to pain and safety.
03Does sciatica always come from a disc?＋
No. The term describes symptom distribution; several structures and mechanisms may be involved.
04When is imaging needed?＋
It is considered according to red flags, neurological deficit, trauma, progression and the clinical question.
Your next step
Begin with a structured assessment
Contact IMG Clinic directly or complete the Clinical Pathway Engine™ beta to prepare an initial clinician-reviewed pathway.