Chronic Sciatica: When Injections and Therapy Stop Working
Understanding the Next Steps Through Accurate Diagnosis and Expert Care
Sciatica is a term many people are familiar with—often described as a sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back down to the legs. For most patients, physiotherapy, medications, and injections bring relief. But what happens when these treatments no longer work, and the pain becomes chronic and debilitating?
At DRHC Dubai, we regularly see patients who have tried everything—from painkillers to steroid injections—and still live with persistent sciatic pain. In this blog, we aim to raise awareness about chronic sciatica, why it may resist standard treatments, and how accurate diagnosis can open the door to more effective solutions.
What Is Chronic Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, is compressed or irritated—usually due to a herniated disc, bone spur, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. Chronic sciatica is when this pain lasts more than 3 months and does not respond well to traditional conservative treatments.
Common symptoms of chronic sciatica include:
- Persistent burning or sharp pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs
- Numbness or tingling along the nerve pathway
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or lifting
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
Why Do Injections and Therapy Sometimes Fail?
1. Misdiagnosis or Incomplete Diagnosis
Not all leg pain is due to sciatica. Conditions like piriformis syndrome, hip joint problems, or vascular issues can mimic sciatica. If the underlying cause isn’t properly identified, treatments won’t work—no matter how advanced they are.
2. Structural Problems Requiring More Than Conservative Treatment
In cases of severe disc herniation, spinal instability, or narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis), injections may only offer short-term relief. Once the pressure on the nerve becomes too great, more targeted intervention is necessary.
3. Nerve Damage
Chronic compression of the sciatic nerve can eventually lead to nerve degeneration or permanent damage. At this stage, physical therapy alone may not be enough to reverse the symptoms.
Importance of Accurate Diagnosis at DRHC Dubai
At DRHC Dubai, we emphasize a diagnostic-first approach. Understanding what’s truly causing the nerve pain is the only way to plan an effective treatment.
Our diagnostic methods include:
- MRI scans to view herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or tumors
- CT scans for a more detailed view of bones and joints
- Nerve conduction studies and EMG to assess nerve function
- Spine specialist evaluations to distinguish between sciatica and other similar conditions
By getting the right diagnosis, we avoid unnecessary treatments and focus on what will work long-term.
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When Is Surgery the Next Step?
Surgery isn’t always the first solution, but in cases of chronic, treatment-resistant sciatica, it may be the best option—especially when:
- Pain persists beyond 3-6 months despite therapy and injections
- There is significant nerve compression on imaging
- You experience progressive muscle weakness or numbness
- There are signs of cauda equina syndrome (a medical emergency with loss of bladder/bowel control)
- Your quality of life is severely affected
Surgical Options for Chronic Sciatica at DRHC Dubai
Our expert orthopedic and neurosurgical team performs minimally invasive and advanced spinal procedures, including:
- Endoscopic spine surgery – A modern, less invasive option with faster recovery
- Laminectomy – Removal of bone or tissue narrowing the spinal canal
- Spinal fusion – Stabilizing the spine in cases of instability
- Endoscopic spine surgery – A modern, less invasive option with faster recovery
- Microdiscectomy – Removal of part of a herniated disc pressing on the nerve
We personalize each treatment based on the patient’s age, symptoms, spine condition, and recovery goals.
Living Pain-Free Starts with the Right Team
Chronic sciatica doesn’t have to be a life sentence. If you're no longer finding relief with injections or therapy, it may be time to re-evaluate your diagnosis and explore new treatment options.
At DRHC Dubai, we combine medical expertise with state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate diagnosis, comprehensive care, and advanced solutions for spine and nerve conditions.
Book a consultation today at DRHC Dubai and take the first step toward lasting relief.
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