Relieve Pain and Restore Mobility with Help from Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants
If you experience a sudden jolt of pain from your lower back, down to your leg, it may be sciatica related. Sitting can be uncomfortable, walking can be difficult, and lying down does not seem to alleviate symptoms either. So what does one do? If this sounds like a familiar experience, you’re most likely dealing with a sciatica flare-up, which is a common and extremely frustrating condition which can truly disrupt your daily life with little warning.
Here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants, we commonly treat patients who are experiencing those same sharp, radiating pains which sciatica is known for. Whether it’s your very first sciatica flare-up, or a recurring problem; knowing what to do—and what to avoid—may make a major difference in your overall recovery time.
Let’s explore what sciatica is, why it may flare-up from time to time, and the best steps you can take when a sciatica flare-up strikes.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a term used to describe symptoms associated with irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which also happens to be the largest nerve in the body. This nerve runs from your lower spine through your hips and buttocks, and down each individual leg.
When the sciatic nerve becomes compressed, commonly due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, it may cause:
- Sharp or burning pain down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes
- Muscle weakness in the leg
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Worsening pain with prolonged sitting or sudden movement
If you’re unsure of whether or not your leg pain is sciatica, the team at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants will perform a comprehensive exam and imaging to truly confirm the diagnosis and determine the underlying root cause.
Common Triggers of Sciatica Flare-Ups
Even if your sciatica happened to be previously under control, flare-ups may occur due to the following:
- Poor posture or sitting too long without support
- Lifting heavy objects improperly
- Sudden twisting or awkward movements
- Weight gain or increased pressure on the spine
- Stress, which can cause muscle tension and inflammation
- Lack of exercise, leading to weak core and back muscles
Through understanding these triggers, you can focus on prevention. With this being said, what do you do when the pain’s already here?
Immediate Steps to Take During a Sciatica Flare-Up
Apply Ice or Heat
If you’re still within the first 48 hours of your sciatica flare-up, ice may help to reduce inflammation and numb the area. After that, heat may soothe tight muscles and improve blood flow.
- Use for 15–20 minutes at a time, max
- Avoid direct contact with the skin—wrap ice/heat packs in a cloth
Keep Moving—Gently
While you may feel as though lying down is the best thing to do when you begin to experience a sciatica flare-up, complete and total bed rest may make symptoms worse. Gentle walking or stretching may help relieve the sciatic nerve pressure and keep your muscles active and promote healthy blood flow and circulation. Here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants, we’ll guide you through a series of safe mobility-focused exercises which are tailored to your unique condition.
Try Over-the-Counter Anti-Inflammatories
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may help with reducing swelling around the sciatic nerve root. However, NSAIDs should only be taken as directed and not looked at as a long-term solution. If you find yourself having to rely on pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication to make it through the day, it’s time to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for actual solutions which can help you achieve a pain-free lifestyle once again.
Use Lumbar Support
If you happen to be sitting at work, in your car, or on your couch, always try to support your lower back. A lumbar pillow or even a rolled-up towel can help you better maintain a proper spinal alignment, thus reducing the sciatic nerve pressure.
Avoid Aggravating Activities
Skip any form of heavy lifting if you’re going through a sciatica flare-up. Additionally, avoid high-impact exercise or sitting down on soft couches for long periods of time. These types of activities can certainly worsen the overall compression of the sciatic nerve and delay your recovery process.
When to See a Specialist
If your flare-up does not resolve within a few days’ time, or it worsens, it’s time to contact our team at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants for professional help. Contact us if you’re experiencing:
- Pain lasting more than a week
- Weakness, numbness, or tingling that doesn’t improve
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency)
- Trouble walking or standing due to pain
We offer advanced diagnostics, including MRI and CT scans, to identify what’s pressing on your nerve. From there, we craft a customized treatment plan—whether it’s physical therapy, epidural injections, or minimally invasive surgery if needed.
Long-Term Solutions for Sciatica
Here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants, our goal is not only to treat the current sciatica flare-up you’re experiencing, but also help prevent any future flare-ups. When you choose Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants, your long-term treatment plan may include:
✅ Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises to strengthen your core, improve posture, and reduce spinal pressure.
✅ Pain Management
Non-surgical options such as steroid injections, nerve blocks, or medications to best manage inflammation and discomfort.
✅ Surgical Care
In severe cases of sciatica flare-ups, surgical options such as a microdiscectomy or laminectomy may be recommended. Our board-certified spine surgeons specialize in minimally invasive techniques to minimize your downtime and maximize your relief, leading to a fully restored, healthy lifestyle.
✅ Lifestyle Support
Our team helps you build a lifestyle which promotes true health through ergonomics, nutrition, exercise, and more to reduce your risk of future sciatic flare-ups.
You Don’t Have to Live with Sciatic Pain
Sciatica may interfere with nearly every aspect of your life when you’re going through a flare-up. Whether it’s sleep disruptions, or even basic daily movements. Yet with the right care, a full recovery is more than possible. At Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants, we believe in treating any issue with a whole body perspective, not just treating the symptoms. Whether you need a simple evaluation, or even a complete care plan, we’re here to help you regain control of your health, reduce pain, and move freely once again. Don’t wait any longer for pain to worsen. Reach out today and take the first step towards lasting relief.
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.