Diagnosis & Why Conservative First
Sciatica is a symptom — leg pain from irritation of lumbar nerve roots, commonly due to a disc herniation. For many around Ambattur, acute cases are self-limiting and improve in 4–6 weeks. We recommend active rest (keep moving within comfort, avoid painful tasks) instead of bed rest, with imaging only when it changes management.
- Clinic exam first: strength, reflexes, nerve stretch, gait.
- Activity advice: posture breaks for Ambattur desk/plant shifts; avoid heavy lifting.
- Escalate when needed: red flags or persistent disability trigger next steps.
Medication: Simple & Time-Bound
NSAIDs (if suitable) are first-line for pain and inflammation. Routine oral steroids and opioids are generally not recommended given limited benefit and risk. We individualise dosing and keep courses short.
For severe, stubborn pain we may consider a targeted epidural steroid injection. It provides short-term relief to allow physiotherapy to progress; it’s not a cure.
Physiotherapy: Nerve Glides + Core
Rehab near Ambattur centres on:
- Nerve glides/tensioners to calm irritability.
- Modified McKenzie extension where appropriate.
- Core and hip control to protect the lumbar spine.
- Heat/Cold as adjuncts; workstation coaching for Ambattur offices and shop-floors.
At OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal, progressions are paced to pain response and work demands.
Quick Answers
What quickly eases sciatica at home?
Short walks, a 10–15 minute heat pack for spasm, and an NSAID if suitable. Avoid prolonged sitting and heavy lifting. If pain shoots below the knee or disturbs sleep, book a review at OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal near Ambattur.
How long does it take to settle?
Many acute cases improve within 4–6 weeks with guided activity and simple analgesia. If symptoms persist or progress — common in Ambattur shift work with long sitting — see a specialist.
Which exercises help?
Gentle nerve glides, short-range back extension (modified McKenzie), and basic core activation. Keep reps pain-free and frequent. Our physiotherapy team near Ambattur will personalise and grade your plan.
Do epidural steroid injections cure sciatica?
No. They provide short-term relief so you can progress physiotherapy. At OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal we use them selectively after medicines and activity changes have been optimised.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Immediately for leg weakness, saddle numbness, or bladder/bowel symptoms. Also book soon if pain persists beyond 1–2 weeks or disrupts sleep/function. Ambattur residents get same-week appointments at OrthoCure.
When to See a Specialist
- Severe radicular pain for > 1–2 weeks despite home measures.
- Progressive weakness or numbness.
- Bladder/bowel or saddle sensation changes (urgent).
Based in Ambattur? You’re minutes away from OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal. We’ll examine you, order MRI only if it changes management, and hand you a clear plan.
Find Us (Near Ambattur)
OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal
No. 2, 2nd Street, Santhipuram, Chennai – 600062
Phone: +91 93427 00212
WhatsApp: Message us