What Is Sciatica? Symptoms, Causes & Effective Treatment Options
Sciatica refers to pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, inflamed, or irritated. The sciatic nerve originates from the lower spine (lumbar and sacral regions) and travels through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica is not a disease itself, but a symptom of an underlying spinal or neurological problem. Dr. (Prof.) Kunal Bahrani, the Best Sciatica Pain Treatment Doctor in Faridabad, offers advanced, evidence-based neurological and interventional pain management solutions aimed at long-term relief and functional recovery.
Common Causes of Sciatica
- Slip Disc (Lumbar Disc Herniation)
The most common cause of sciatica. A bulging or herniated disc presses on the sciatic nerve roots, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.
- Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal compresses nerve roots, often seen in older adults.
- Degenerative Disc Disease
Age-related degeneration causes disc height loss and nerve irritation.
- Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve, causing buttock and leg pain.
- Spondylolisthesis
A vertebra slips over another, compressing nerves.
- Trauma or Injury
Accidents or falls can damage the spine and affect nerve roots.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica symptoms usually affect one side of the body and may vary in intensity.
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp, shooting pain from lower back to leg
- Burning or electric-shock-like sensation
- Pain worsening while sitting
- Numbness or tingling in leg or foot
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty standing or walking
⚠️ Severe weakness or bladder/bowel issues require urgent medical attention.
Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica
| Back Pain | Sciatica |
| Localised pain | Radiating leg pain |
| Muscle-related | Nerve-related |
| Improves with rest | Often worsens with sitting |
| No numbness | Tingling or weakness common |
When Sciatica Becomes a Neurological Emergency
Seek immediate medical care if sciatica is accompanied by:
- Sudden severe leg weakness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Progressive numbness
- Severe pain not responding to medication
These may indicate serious nerve compression.
Diagnosis of Sciatica
Neurological Examination
A neurologist evaluates:
- Reflexes
- Muscle strength
- Sensation
- Gait and posture
Diagnostic Tests (If Required)
- MRI of lumbar spine
- X-rays (for alignment issues)
- Nerve conduction studies
These help identify the exact cause and severity of nerve compression.
Treatment Options for Sciatica
- Conservative Treatment
Most patients improve with:
- Short-term activity modification
- Pain-relief medications
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Neurology-Based Medical Management
For nerve pain:
- Neuropathic pain medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Targeted treatment based on diagnosis
- Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy helps by:
- Reducing nerve pressure
- Improving posture
- Strengthening core muscles
- Preventing recurrence
- Lifestyle & Posture Correction
- Avoid prolonged sitting
- Proper ergonomic seating
- Weight management
- Regular stretching
- Advanced Pain Management
For persistent sciatica:
- Nerve root blocks
- Injection-based therapies
- Multidisciplinary pain care
Surgery is considered only in severe or progressive neurological deficits.
Why Early Treatment of Sciatica Is Important
Delaying treatment can lead to:
- Chronic nerve pain
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced mobility
- Permanent nerve damage
Early neurological intervention improves recovery and prevents complications.
Role of a Neurologist in Sciatica Treatment
A neurologist focuses on:
- Identifying nerve root involvement
- Differentiating sciatica from other causes
- Preventing nerve damage
- Long-term symptom control
This makes neurological evaluation essential for persistent or recurrent sciatica.
About Dr. Kunal Bahrani
Dr. Kunal Bahrani is an experienced neurologist with expertise in managing sciatica, slip disc, and nerve-related spine disorders. He emphasizes accurate diagnosis, conservative treatment, and patient education, helping patients avoid unnecessary procedures and achieve long-term relief.
When Should You Consult Dr. Kunal Bahrani for Sciatica?
Consult a neurologist if:
- Leg pain persists beyond 1–2 weeks
- Pain worsens with sitting
- Numbness or weakness develops
- Previous treatment has failed
- Daily activities are affected
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is sciatica permanent?
No. Most cases improve with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
- Can sciatica heal without surgery?
Yes. Surgery is rarely needed and only in severe cases.
- Is walking good for sciatica?
Gentle walking can help, but excessive strain should be avoided.
- How long does sciatica last?
Acute sciatica may resolve in weeks; chronic cases need structured care.
- Can sitting worsen sciatica?
Yes, prolonged sitting increases nerve compression.
- What doctor should I consult for sciatica?
A neurologist is best for nerve-related leg pain.
- Does physiotherapy help sciatica?
Yes, it plays a crucial role in long-term recovery.
- Can sciatica recur?
Yes, especially without posture correction and lifestyle changes.
Sciatica should not limit your mobility or independence. With his vast experience, precision-driven treatments, and patient-centric approach, Dr. (Prof.) Kunal Bahrani is widely regarded as the most trusted doctor for sciatica pain treatment in Faridabad. His specialised Sciatica Clinic in Faridabad provides comprehensive assessment, personalised treatment plans, and advanced non-surgical interventions designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and help patients return to an active, pain-free life.