Sciatica is a painful condition that develops when the sciatic nerve — the largest nerve in the body — becomes compressed or irritated. The pain typically radiates from the lower back into the hip, buttock, and down one leg. For some people, sciatica symptoms fade within weeks, but for others, the condition lingers or becomes chronic. So how long does sciatica actually last, and when should you seek treatment?
What is sciatica and why does it develop?
Sciatica most often develops after a car accident, a workplace injury, or due to degenerative changes in the spine. Common causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, inflammation, or muscle strain that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. The severity and underlying cause of the injury play a major role in how long the pain will last.
How long does sciatica pain usually last?
In many cases, mild sciatica symptoms improve within 4 to 6 weeks with rest, self-care, and conservative treatments. However, if the nerve remains compressed or irritated, the pain can last much longer and may return in cycles.
When does sciatica become chronic?
Sciatica is considered chronic when symptoms persist for 12 weeks or longer, or when flare-ups occur repeatedly over time. Chronic sciatica can lead to long-term nerve damage, muscle weakness, and significant limitations in daily life. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are essential to prevent this progression.
Factors that affect how long sciatica lasts
Several factors determine recovery time:
- The cause of the nerve irritation (herniated disc vs. muscle strain).
- The severity of the initial injury.
- Whether the sciatica developed after a car accident or workplace injury.
- The timing of medical intervention — delayed treatment increases the risk of chronic pain.
- The patient’s overall health and activity level.
How to relieve sciatica symptoms at home
For mild cases, short-term relief may come from:
- Alternating heat and cold therapy.
- Gentle stretching and low-impact exercise.
- Avoiding long periods of sitting or standing.
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
While these methods can ease discomfort, they rarely address the root cause when sciatica develops after an accident.
Why professional treatment is essential for sciatica
If left untreated, sciatica can progress to permanent nerve damage and chronic disability. A pain management specialist like Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD, provides comprehensive evaluation and advanced therapies that go beyond temporary relief. He combines expert diagnosis with minimally invasive procedures to target the exact source of the pain.
Advanced non-surgical treatments for lasting relief
At Allied Neurology & Interventional Pain Practice, patients have access to:
- Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation.
- Nerve blocks for immediate pain relief.
- Radiofrequency ablation to stop chronic pain signals.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy to promote healing.
- Coordinated physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
These treatments help patients recover faster, avoid surgery, and return to daily life with confidence.
When to see a doctor about sciatica
You should seek immediate evaluation if you experience:
- Pain lasting longer than two weeks.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot.
- Difficulty walking, standing, or controlling bowel/bladder function.
- Pain following a car accident or workplace injury.
Prompt treatment reduces the risk of chronic pain and ensures your injuries are fully documented for any personal injury or workers’ compensation case.
Book your consultation today
If you are struggling with sciatica that has lasted more than a few days or developed after an auto accident or workplace injury, don’t wait until it becomes chronic. With over 35 years of experience and triple board certification, Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD, provides the advanced, compassionate care you need. Call 201-894-1313 or book your appointment at one of our convenient New Jersey and New York locations today.
