Sciatica is a condition that affects millions of people every year. It can be caused by a variety of things, including a herniated disk, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of sciatica, call us at Integrative Pain & Spine Institute right away at 704-317-1440 for an evaluation and treatment.

But how long does sciatica last?

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, and it runs from the base of the spine all the way down to the feet. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause a number of symptoms, including pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness.

What Causes Sciatica?

There are many different things that can cause sciatica, including a herniated disk, spinal stenosis, and piriformis syndrome. A herniated disk is when one of the discs in your spine becomes damaged or ruptured. Spinal stenosis occurs when there is a narrowing of the space for nerve roots to exit from the spine. Piriformis syndrome happens when the piriformis muscle (which lies deep inside your glutes/buttock) becomes tight and presses on nearby nerves that could lead to pain down your leg or buttock area called sciatica.

What Are The Treatments For Sciatica?

The treatment options will depend on what has caused it in the first place. Typically, Dr. Manvar will refer you to physical therapy to help improve the range of motion and functionality of the lower leg. In addition, he may start you on nerve-pain medicine to help with the symptoms like burning, tingling, numbness and the electric shock-like pain. The best way to treat the pain is to target to source by performing a lumbar epidural steroid injection or a transforaminal injection. This procedure is very safe, quick, covered by insurance, and requires no surgery. You can get back to your day to day activities very quickly with improvement of your pain.

How Long Can Sciatica Last?

The length of time that sciatica lasts can vary greatly from person to person. In most cases, and if treated swiftly and correctly, it will go away within a few weeks or months. However, there are some cases where it can last for years or even for life. Ultimately, the sooner you get treatment, the more likely you are to find long-term relief.

Why Is It Important To Get Treatment For Sciatica?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of sciatica, it is important to seek treatment right away. If left untreated, sciatica can cause long-term pain and disability. So, if you are experiencing any sciatica symptoms, please do not hesitate to contact us immediately!