<s>[INST] I have a dull pain that has been in my lower right back that I can also feel from the front, when it is hurting. Sometimes the pain can also radiate upward and effect my right side. Not very painful, just nagging. Stretching can help, but it never really goes away. I m thinking sciatic pain but how can I be sure? Kelly [/INST] Hi, thank-you for providing the brief history of you. A thorough clinical neuromuscular assessment is advised along with MRI of the lumbar spine. This pain symptoms mentioned by you may be dude to pinch nerve and so as the symptoms are arising may be due to this. After a thorough neuromuscular assessment taking an MRI will help understand the soft tissue status. Also, as you feel better with Stretching the pain can be due to Sacroiliac joint issues which post clinical assessment and MRI will be understood. I will recommend you to undergo physical therapy as it will help reduce pain and inflammation by Therapeutic ultrasound therapy and TENS therapy. Performing exercises at a later stage will help provide better muscular strength and joint stability. In my Clinical practice we recommend patients to physical therapy, and they respond well with outstanding results. RegardsJay In Chat Doctor.  </s>