How to prepare for a video visit about Sciatica (Acute) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Sciatica in children is a condition where the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs, becomes irritated or compressed. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, or legs. Acute sciatica often starts suddenly and may improve with rest and simple care. Preparing for a video visit about sciatica can help you and your child get the most from the appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, watch your child's movements, and suggest ways to manage pain or improve comfort. Sometimes, further tests or in-person visits may be needed. This guide helps families understand what to expect and how to prepare for a telemedicine visit about acute sciatica in children.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness in the legs or difficulty walking — seek emergency care immediately.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control — go to the emergency room at once.
• Severe, worsening pain that does not improve with rest — contact healthcare promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of symptoms and history for acute sciatica in children.
• Guidance on pain management and activity modifications.
• Observation of movement and posture through video.
• Advice on when to seek in-person care or emergency services.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams that require hands-on assessment.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests without in-person evaluation.
• Managing severe neurological deficits or emergency conditions.
• Providing prescriptions that require physical examination in some regions.

What is Acute Sciatica in Children?

Acute sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve is pinched or irritated. In children, this may cause sharp or burning pain that starts suddenly in the lower back or leg. The pain can make it hard to walk or sit comfortably. It often gets better with rest and gentle care but sometimes needs medical attention.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your child's symptoms, watch how they move, and give advice on managing pain. Telemedicine can be a quick way to get help without traveling to a clinic. However, some situations may still need an in-person visit.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before the visit, gather information about your child's pain, such as when it started, what makes it better or worse, and any other symptoms like numbness or weakness. Have a quiet, well-lit space for the visit. Make sure your device's camera and microphone work so the provider can see and hear clearly.

What to Expect During the Visit

The provider will ask questions about the pain and watch your child move to check their strength and flexibility. They may suggest simple exercises, pain relief methods, or when to seek further care. If needed, they might recommend tests or an in-person exam.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If your child has sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe pain that gets worse, or numbness around the genitals or bottom, seek emergency care right away. These signs need urgent evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and description of your child's pain and symptoms.
• Prepare a list of any other symptoms like numbness, weakness, or bladder changes.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with enough space for your child to move during the visit.
• Test your device’s camera, microphone, and internet connection before the appointment.
• Have a family member or caregiver available to assist if needed.
• Prepare any questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s advice on pain relief, rest, and gentle activity.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes or new signs.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended, either by video or in-person.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Keep a record of any prescribed treatments or exercises for reference.

FAQs

Can a video visit diagnose sciatica in my child?

A video visit allows the provider to learn about your child's symptoms and watch their movements, which helps in making a preliminary assessment. However, a full diagnosis may require an in-person exam or tests.

What should I do if my child's pain gets worse after the video visit?

If your child's pain worsens or new symptoms like weakness or bladder problems develop, seek in-person medical care promptly or go to the emergency room.

Are there exercises my child can do to help sciatica?

The provider may suggest gentle stretches or movements during the video visit. Always follow their guidance and avoid any activity that causes more pain.

Is sciatica common in children?

Sciatica is less common in children than adults but can occur due to injury, infection, or other causes. It's important to have symptoms evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for sciatica?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial evaluation and follow-up but cannot replace in-person visits when a physical exam or tests are needed.

Sources

1. Sciatica — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Low Back Pain and Sciatica in Children and Adolescents — National Library of Medicine.
3. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Sciatica: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.