Dr. SudheerNeurologist
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Sciatica Treatment in New Delhi

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve β€” from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg. It is usually caused by compression of a spinal nerve root, most commonly from a herniated disc.

Medically reviewed 2026-08-08 Β· Dr. Sudheer Pandey, DrNB Neurology

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve β€” from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg. It is usually caused by compression of a spinal nerve root, most commonly from a herniated disc.

The good news is that the majority of sciatica improves substantially within 6–8 weeks with the right combination of medication, posture correction and physiotherapy. A neurologist's careful examination ensures that the rare cases needing urgent intervention are identified early.

What are the symptoms of Sciatica?

Common symptoms include the features below. Patterns vary β€” a neurologist matches your history to the right diagnosis rather than treating a single symptom in isolation.

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Sharp shooting pain down one leg
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Pain worse with sitting or coughing
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Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
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Weakness of foot or toes
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Pain relieved by lying flat
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Burning pain in the calf or sole
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Lower back stiffness
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Difficulty standing for long

What causes Sciatica?

Identifying the cause guides treatment. These are frequent contributors β€” your evaluation may reveal one factor or a combination.

Herniated Disc

The most common cause of nerve root compression.

Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing of the spinal canal, more common with age.

Piriformis Syndrome

Buttock muscle irritating the sciatic nerve.

Spondylolisthesis

Slippage of one vertebra over another.

Spinal Injury

Trauma to the lumbar spine.

Rarely Tumour or Infection

Important to rule out in atypical cases.

How does Dr. Sudheer treat Sciatica?

Care is personalised after examination and targeted tests. The usual pathway has three stages:

Diagnosis

Straight-leg raise and neurological exam for root level; lumbar MRI when weakness, saddle numbness, bladder change or pain beyond six weeks suggests significant compression.

Treatment Plan

Anti-inflammatory and neuropathic pain medicines, early mobilisation, physiotherapy and posture advice; urgent surgical referral for cauda equina or progressive foot drop.

Follow-up

Reassess pain and strength over weeks, reinforce core exercises to prevent recurrence, and escalate imaging or intervention if deficit worsens.

When should I seek urgent care for Sciatica?

  • β€’ Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • β€’ Numbness around the saddle area
  • β€’ Progressive leg weakness
  • β€’ Severe pain with fever or weight loss

Frequently asked questions about Sciatica

Direct answers patients ask before booking a neurology consultation.

More than 90% of patients improve with non-surgical treatment such as medication and physiotherapy. Surgery is considered when there is significant weakness or unrelenting pain despite proper conservative care.

Prolonged bed rest actually slows recovery and stiffens the back. Short rest during severe pain is fine, then gentle walking and guided physiotherapy are more effective for lasting relief.

Most acute sciatica improves substantially within four to eight weeks when medication, activity pacing and physiotherapy are started early and red-flag symptoms are ruled out promptly.

Yes, disc-related sciatica can recur, especially with heavy lifting or prolonged sitting. Core strengthening, posture awareness and healthy weight management greatly reduce how often flares return.

Suffering from Sciatica? Get expert help today.

Same-week appointments at MGS Super Speciality Hospital (Punjabi Bagh) and Shree Aggarsain International Hospital (Rohini).

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