What should I do for severe sciatica pain?

Severe sciatica pain usually causes sharp, burning, or shooting pain that travels from the lower back down the leg. Initial treatment often includes rest for short periods, avoiding heavy lifting, physiotherapy, stretching exercises, pain-relief medicines, and hot or cold packs. Many people also benefit from posture correction and avoiding prolonged sitting. If the pain is severe, associated with numbness, leg weakness, or difficulty walking, doctors may recommend scans like an MRI to look for a slipped disc or nerve compression.

You should seek urgent medical care if sciatica is causing loss of bladder or bowel control, severe weakness, or worsening numbness. Persistent symptoms sometimes require injections or surgery depending on the cause.