Hurricane Wilma Gave Me Sciatica

Gradually, however, I have been increasingly bothered by occasional (right) hip pain and sciatica attacks, which I strongly doubt are coincidental. The sciatica attacks are aperiodic, ranging from monthly to 2-3 per week and lasting for 3-5 minutes, and they involve the buttocks, thighs and calves of both legs. These attacks totally disable me, temporarily. I have to sit or lie down and I'm unable to do anything else until the attack abates.

I can't identify triggering causes but it sometimes happens if I rise too quickly from a resting position such as a bed or chair. It does not seem to be provoked by exercise such as walking or using gym weights for muscle toning. I have learned that the duration and severity is lessened if I can put forward-directed pressure on my lower back, such as by lying on my back with my hands clasped beneath the lowest vertebrae. I have not attempted treatment or sought medical help yet.

Has anyone had similar experience, and do you have any advice for me? Is it better to see a chiropractor or an orthopedic doctor? Will spinal decompression help in a situation like mine, that appears to be due to a compressed or herniated disc?

I replaced the ladder, but too late. - David