Question
Dear Sir. I had my right foot drop about six months ago, I was also having alot of frequent pain in my back, along with siatica in the left side of my buttock, and down my leg.  I have re-gained most of the use of my right ankle in the last few months, just taking it easy, my question is, I constantly am putting my back out (siatica) it takes practicaly nothing to do this. What should I do, I have degeneration in my spine and neck. I am on pain meds. I just wanted to know if I can do anything to help my back and neck.  Cynthia

Answer
I would suggest you undergo a physical therapy program to strengthen the abdominal and lumbar region. That may decrease the likelihood of your back giving out constantly and getting the sciatic symptoms. Once you have degeneration in the discs and vertebrae in your spine, it's there to stay so the best way to manage it is through exercise and lifestyle modifications. Wearing some type of lumbar brace is another option to look into.