Other problems affecting bones, joints and muscles of the back and pelvis can also cause sciatica though these may not be easily diagnosed, sometimes leaving the cause of sciatic pain unknown. People in their 30s and 40s are more likely to develop sciatica, which is rare in younger people. Occupations physically demanding work requiring heavy lifting, driving long hours or twisting the back are all risk factors for sciatica. Depending on the cause, sciatic pain often disappear in about six weeks. Complications of sciatica Depending on the cause of sciatica, numbness in the affected leg may occur as well as the loss of bladder control and bowel in some cases. In severe cases of sciatica, permanent nerve damage may occur. How is sciatica usually treated? Most people with sciatica using prescribed pain medication or anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief. a hese provide some relief, but generally have the potential to cause serious adverse effects.

Medications are usually used in conjunction with physical therapy and stretching / strength as well as hot and cold compresses. In severe cases of sciatic pain that does not respond to treatment, doctors can conventional health advise anti-inflammatory steroid injections in the affected area. These injections are not always very effective and can also cause serious side effects. Because of the dangers, there is a limit to how many of these injections an individual can receive – usually no more than three years. Surgery to remove the herniated part of a disc is sometimes performed on people with severe symptoms like weakness or incontinence or if the pain is getting worse despite treatment.