How We Diagnose & Why We Start Conservatively
Sciatica is a symptom — leg pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve roots, often from a lumbar disc herniation. For most people near Avadi, acute sciatica is self-limiting and settles in 4–6 weeks. We advise active rest (keep gently moving, avoid painful tasks) — not strict bed rest — and build a plan you can follow at home. If red flags appear, we escalate promptly.
- Exam-first: strength, reflexes, nerve stretch, gait; MRI only when indicated.
- Stay active: short walks, posture breaks; avoid heavy lifting/long sitting.
- Local context: commute and workstation tweaks for Avadi/CTH Road corridors.
Medication: Simple, Safe, Short-Term
We use NSAIDs (if suitable for you) for pain and inflammation. Routine oral steroids and opioids are generally not recommended due to limited benefit and risk. We’ll review your medical background before advising any drug, and we keep courses short.
If pain remains severe, we may consider a targeted epidural steroid injection. It’s not a cure — it provides a short relief window so rehab can progress.
Physiotherapy: Nerve Glides + Core
Our in-house rehab near Avadi focuses on:
- Nerve glides/tensioners to reduce irritability safely.
- Modified McKenzie extension where appropriate.
- Core stabilisation & hip control to protect the back.
- Heat/Cold packs as adjuncts; workstation coaching for Avadi industries.
At OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal we pace exercises to your pain response and life demands.
Quick Answers from Dr. Sumesh
What is the fastest way to calm sciatica at home?
Try 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 despite this, book a review at OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal near Avadi.
How long does sciatica usually take to settle?
Many acute cases improve in 4–6 weeks with guided activity, simple analgesia and, when needed, early physiotherapy. If symptoms persist or progress, especially around Avadi commuters with long sitting, see a specialist.
Which exercises help sciatica safely?
Start with gentle nerve glides, short-range back extension (modified McKenzie), and basic core activation. Keep reps pain-free and frequent. Our physiotherapy team near Avadi teaches a graded plan so you avoid flares.
Are epidural steroid injections a cure?
No. Injections 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 tried.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Immediately for leg weakness, saddle numbness, or bladder/bowel issues. Book soon if pain persists beyond 1–2 weeks or disrupts sleep/function. Avadi residents can access same-week appointments at OrthoCure.
When to See a Specialist
- Severe pain below the knee for > 1–2 weeks despite home care.
- Progressive weakness, numbness, or loss of reflexes.
- Bladder/bowel or saddle sensation changes (urgent).
Living in Avadi? You’re minutes away from OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal. We’ll examine you, explain your MRI only if it’s needed, and outline a practical plan you can follow.
Find Us (Near Avadi)
OrthoCure Bone & Joint Clinic Thirumullaivoyal
No. 2, 2nd Street, Santhipuram, Chennai – 600062
Phone: +91 93427 00212
WhatsApp: Message us