What is sciatica?
Sciatica treatment focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing the underlying cause, typically through conservative measures. Most cases improve with physical therapy, including stretching, core-strengthening, and low-impact exercises like walking or swimming, alongside over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen) or prescribed medications like muscle relaxants or nerve pain drugs. Hot and cold therapy, proper posture, and activity modification (avoiding prolonged sitting or heavy lifting) can alleviate symptoms, while chiropractic care, acupuncture, or massage may provide additional relief. For persistent or severe cases, corticosteroid injections offer temporary pain reduction, and surgery (e.g., microdiscectomy or laminectomy) may be considered if symptoms last beyond 6-12 weeks or involve significant weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control. Always consult a healthcare provider for a tailored plan, especially if symptoms worsen or persist.