What Happens if Sciatica Pain Is Left Untreated?

Ignoring pain and hoping it goes away is a natural response but not always the best course of action. In some cases, including sciatica, it can lead to permanent problems.

Drs. Jocelyn Idema and Ari Pressman and our top-notch team at Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center are experts on when to treat musculoskeletal and orthopedic problems conservatively and when to employ our state-of-the-art techniques.

Whether the issue is sciatica, a disc problem, a work injury, or something else, we create personalized, evidence-based treatment plans for patients at our offices in Western Pennsylvania and South Florida.

Sciatica

The sciatic nerve runs from the back of the pelvis down the rear of the thigh. Sciatica occurs when a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other issue compresses or irritates the nerve.

Symptoms include dull discomfort, electric shock-like pain, tingling, and numbness. Severe cases may involve muscle weakness and urinary or bowel incontinence.

Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body.

Risk factors

About 4 in 10 people in the United States experience sciatica.

Normal wear-and-tear on the body, aging, and injury can play a role in sciatica. Carrying excess weight that stresses the back, having weak core muscles, and sitting for long stretches also contribute.

Your job can be a risk if it requires a lot of heavy lifting, bending, or remaining in an uncomfortable or awkward position. Health and lifestyle factors like Type 2 diabetes or smoking can increase the chances of sciatica. Sometimes, there’s no obvious cause.

Dangers of untreated sciatica

Sciatica can resolve on its own. Many people, however, risk more than just pain if they don’t address the ongoing pressure on the spinal nerve. They may be at greater risk of additional complications, including:

Long-term pain

Untreated sciatica can lead to chronic pain lasting months or years.

Nerve damage

Nerve damage can cause muscle weakness and numbness, making everyday tasks such as walking and keeping your balance more challenging.

Serious nerve damage can also result in losing control of bladder or bowel function.

Permanent paralysis

In rare cases, sciatica can indicate cauda equina syndrome, which requires emergency treatment and can lead to permanent paralysis if not addressed immediately.

How we can help

If you suffer from sciatica pain or another musculoskeletal or orthopedic issue, we can make a proper diagnosis and get you on the road to recovery. Call Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center today to make an appointment.