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February 9, 2012
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Sciatica (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

Sciatica Prognosis

Most of the time, the pain associated with sciatica goes away in days to weeks. Pain can become more chronic in a small number of people, leading to some disability. Sciatica tends to reoccur frequently, sometimes without warning.

As your back is recovering, avoid twisting your back while bending at the same time because this move may aggravate your healing back and may slow your recovery.

Synonyms and Keywords

sciatica, lumbago, piriformis syndrome, ischiadic passion disease, back pain, low back pain, slipped disc, herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, sciatic nerve, back injury

Authors and Editors

Author: Catherine B. Driver, MD

Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Previous contributing author and editors:

Author: Joseph R Lex, Jr, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Temple University Hospital.

Editors: Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM, Research Director, Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine; Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD, Senior Pharmacy Editor, eMedicine; Thomas Rebbecchi, MD, FAAEM, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

REFERENCE:

Hildreth, C.J., C. Lynm, and R.M. Glass. "Sciatica." JAMA 302.2 (2009): 216.


Last Editorial Review: 8/9/2010

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Sciatica - Treatments

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What treatments have been helpful with your sciatica?

Sciatica - Describe Your Experience

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Chronic Pain/Back Pain

Find tips and advances in treatment.




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