I too have sciatic pain that flairs up now and then. The pain starts in my lower back and runs down through one leg. Typically, muscles contract to stabilize the lower back, making it hard to walk normally. As with many people with similar problems, this occurs from "degenerative disc disease", which occurs with everyone to some degree and is a normal part of aging. Do a search on the disease, there's lots of information available.

I've actually had some lower back pain for almost 30 years. The flair ups occur with some regularity, for different lengths of time. When the pain is sever enough, I have trouble walking and walk with a limp.

Stretching, strengthening core muscles, and working to improve posture can help keep the spine stay in alignment.

I'm surprised they're recommending an MRI, which cost more then x-rays. At least I think that's right, but I'm no doctor.

Isn't getting older fun! As I get out of bed each day, I'm thankful I can actually get up, but worry about what's going to hurt, and I'm not even 60 yet.

All the best...