How long sciatica pain lasts and its treatment options

Sciatica affects millions of people worldwide and is known for its sharp, radiating pain from the lower back to the legs. But how long does this pain actually last? And what can you do to get relief? This guide breaks down everything you need to know.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in the body. It usually affects one side and follows a path from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down the leg.

Common Causes

• Herniated disc (most common)

• Spinal stenosis

• Degenerative disc disease

• Piriformis syndrome

• Trauma or injury

• Pregnancy-related changes

Typical Symptoms

• Shooting or burning pain down the leg

• Numbness or tingling

• Muscle weakness in the affected leg

• Pain worsens with sitting or prolonged standing

How Long Does Sciatica Last?

• Acute sciatica: Resolves in 4–6 weeks

• Subacute: Lasts 6–12 weeks

• Chronic: Persists beyond 12 weeks and may be recurrent

Recovery depends on:

• The underlying cause

• Early intervention

• Activity level and posture

• Overall spinal health

Can Sciatica Return?

Yes. Recurrence is possible, especially if:

• You sit for long hours without breaks

• You lift improperly

• You have untreated spinal issues

Treatment Options

1. Self-Care:

   • Heat/Ice: Ice reduces inflammation initially; heat improves circulation after 72 hours.

   • Activity Modification: Avoid prolonged sitting; gentle walking/swimming maintains mobility.

2. Medications:

   • NSAIDs: First-line for inflammation (e.g., ibuprofen) - Please to your doctor or clinician.

   • Paracetamol and Codeine: - Please to your doctor or clinician.

3. Physiotherapy:

   • Focuses on core strengthening, nerve gliding, and McKenzie methods - depending on underlying cause.

4. Interventional Procedures:

   • Cortisone Injections: Corticosteroid injection offer short-term relief (up to 3 months or longer depending on underlying cause).

   • Nerve Root Blocks: Target specific compressed nerves.

5. Surgery:

   • Microdiscectomy: Minimally invasive removal of herniated disc material (90% success rate) 9.

   • Laminectomy: For spinal stenosis or bone spurs

Prevention and Management

• Regular Exercise: Strengthening core muscles to support the spine.

• Proper Posture: Maintaining alignment to reduce nerve pressure.

• Weight Management: Reducing strain on the lower back.

Conclusion:

Sciatica, though often self-limiting, can persist for weeks or even months depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. Early recognition and accurate diagnosis are crucial in managing symptoms and preventing chronicity.

Evidence supports a variety of treatment options—from conservative methods like exercise therapy and NSAIDs to more interventional strategies like spinal injections or surgery for refractory cases.

The optimal treatment is patient-specific and should consider the duration, severity, and functional impact of the symptoms. With a tailored, evidence-based approach, most individuals can achieve significant relief and regain quality of life.

References:

1. Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). Sciatica: A to Z.

2. Liu, C., et al. (2023). Surgical versus non-surgical treatment for sciatica: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMJ, 381, e070730.

3. Medical News Today. (2023). Acupuncture can help relieve sciatica pain: New evidence confirms.

4. Verywell Health. (2023). How Long Does Sciatica Last? Understanding the Duration and Finding Relief.

5. StatPearls Publishing. (2023). Sciatica. In StatPearls.