HI , I have Sciatica pain for last one year - which start from lower back and goes to left leg . Can you suggest long term effective treatment .Also when should one look at having surgery.

Ans: Hello Subash,
Have you done your x-ray/MRI?
What have the doctors diagnosed as the cause of your low back pain?

Ans: Yoga and physiotherapy only under proper guidance of an experienced teacher can provide relief in Sciatica. Until then practice lying on the floor for 15-20 mins using cane mat or rug.

Ans: Hello Anonymous,
Have you done your blood tests for Vitamin D/Vitamin B12? Have you done your x-rays/MRI for the back?
If yes, what does it show?
A physiotherapist needs to evaluate you, understand the cause of your pain and accordingly give you the treatment since you have pain for 15 years. If it is paining in your legs too then some nerve in the back is also getting compressed. Please do the MRI for your lumbar spine and show an orthopedic or physiotherapist.

Ans: Dear Mr Skt. Thank you for your query.

As a physiotherapist, I understand how challenging slip discs (L4-L5 & L5-S1) can be, especially with recurring sciatic pain. Managing this condition requires a combination of professional physiotherapy and consistent home care. Physiotherapy is crucial, it helps reduce pain without surgery, prevents recurrence by strengthening core and spinal muscles, and improves mobility for long term relief. I strongly recommend attending 10-15 physiotherapy sessions at a nearby clinic, where you’ll receive manual therapy, targeted exercises (like McKenzie extensions or Williams flexions, depending on what eases your pain), sciatic nerve glides, and postural training. These sessions will also teach you safe exercises to continue at home, such as gentle stretches and strengthening.

At home, avoid forward bending, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting/standing, take breaks every 30 minutes. Use a lumbar support pillow while sitting and sleep in a back-friendly position (either on your side with a pillow between your knees or on your back with a pillow under your knees). Staying active with controlled movements is key, but avoid high-impact activities like jumping.

Commit to the initial physiotherapy sessions, then maintain your exercises regularly at home. Consistency is vital for recovery and preventing flare ups. Wishing you a quick recovery! Stay patient and diligent your efforts will make a difference.

Ans: Hello. Thank you for reaching out to me and sorry to hear you’re struggling with sciatica and it can be challenging to concentrate on work especially if you spend long hours sitting for work. The best step you can take is to see a physiotherapist, since they can figure out the exact cause of your pain and create a treatment plan tailored to you. In the meantime, try to avoid sitting for long stretches, stand up or move around every 20–30 minutes, and make sure your chair supports your lower back. Simple exercises like lying on your stomach, gentle back extensions, bridging, and bird-dog can help relieve pressure and strengthen your core and glutes, but stop right away if anything makes your leg pain worse. Also hamstring streches, piriformis and gluteal stretch along with Nerve glides may also help keep the sciatic nerve moving freely. Pay close attention to your posture and avoid heavy lifting or twisting, since those can aggravate your symptoms. With the right mix of professional treatment, small daily adjustments, and regular exercises, you’ll be able to manage this condition well. I wish you quick recovery.