Condition Pain Condition Benchmarked

Sciatica / Lumbar Radiculopathy

Radiating pain from the lumbar spine into the leg following a dermatomal pattern. Assessment targets neural tension, lumbar mobility, directional preference identification, and neurological screening.

Clinical note: Sciatica has a high natural recovery rate. Avoid catastrophizing language. Movement and activity modification are more effective than rest.
6
ROM Tests
4
Corrective Priorities
4
Risk Factors
6
Red Flags

Key ROM Tests

1 Straight Leg Raise
2 Lumbar Flexion Rom
3 Hip Internal Rotation
4 Thomas Test
5 Diaphragmatic Assessment
6 Ankle Dorsiflexion

Risk Factors Assessed

Straight Leg Raise
Lumbar Flexion Rom
Hip Internal Rotation
Thomas Test

Expected Timeline

6-12 weeks for most presentations, 12-24 weeks for chronic, surgical referral if progressive neurological deficit

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sciatica / lumbar radiculopathy be corrected with exercise?
Typical improvement timeline is 6-12 weeks for most presentations, 12-24 weeks for chronic, surgical referral if progressive neurological deficit. The protocol includes 4 prioritized corrective interventions and screens for red flags that require medical referral.
What assessments are done for sciatica / lumbar radiculopathy?
The protocol assesses Straight Leg Raise, Lumbar Flexion Rom, Hip Internal Rotation, Thomas Test. Each test identifies the specific driver of the condition, guiding the corrective sequence.
Is sciatica / lumbar radiculopathy the same for everyone?
No. The assessment differentiates structural from functional causes and identifies the individual's primary driver. The corrective plan is ordered by priority, with the highest-leverage corrections addressed first.
How do I get started with the Sciatica / Lumbar Radiculopathy protocol?
Apply for an assessment through AKMI. Your coach will run the Sciatica / Lumbar Radiculopathy protocol as part of your initial structural evaluation, then build a personalized corrective plan based on the findings.

Get your Sciatica / Lumbar Radiculopathy assessment

Your coach runs this protocol as part of your structural evaluation, then builds a personalized corrective plan based on the data.

Apply for Assessment

Protocol Details

Category
Condition
Subcategory
Pain Condition
ROM Tests
6
Corrective Targets
4
Benchmarked
Yes
Red Flag Screens
6
Timeline
6-12 weeks for most presentations, 12-24 weeks for chronic, surgical referral if progressive neurological deficit
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