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If you have bad back pain or sciatica, it's worth going to your doctor. Back pain often clears up on its own after a short time.¹ But your doctor may be able to tell you more about what the problem is and advise you about the best way to handle it.

Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor.

• Is there any way you can be sure I have a slipped disk?
• Should I have an MRI scan or a CT scan? If so, when?
• Are there any signs of complications?
• Is there a risk that I could have complications?
• Do I need to stay in bed or rest?
• Are there any activities that might make it worse?
• Is there anything that can help the pain?
• How can I avoid getting back pain again?
• Are there any exercises that can make my back stronger?
• Should I drive?

• Does the scan show how badly damaged the disk is?
• Does the disk that's damaged in my spine match the symptoms I have?
• How can you be sure the slipped disk is causing my symptoms?

• What is surgery likely to do for me?
• What are the risks?
• How long will it take for me to recover?
• When will I be able to go back to work?
• Which kind of surgery do you recommend? Should I have the standard operation or would one of the newer techniques be better?
• If I don't have surgery, what other treatments are there?
• What else can I do to make my back feel better?

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.