Injury to the Sciatic Nerve
At 25 years old and weighing 135 pounds, I am currently taking naproxen and Lyrica to manage my sciatic nerve injury. The pain in my right leg has made it incredibly difficult for me to remain upright. It’s been two weeks since I first sought treatment; I consulted a physician who advised medication and attended a physiotherapy session. Initially, I experienced some relief after the appointment, but unfortunately, the pain returned the following day—even the prescribed home exercises exacerbated my discomfort. Just yesterday, I attempted the cobra pose, along with the flossing technique, which only heightened my pain. I find it nearly impossible to stand for more than a few seconds before the discomfort becomes intolerable. Additionally, I have an appointment with an osteopath on Tuesday, but I can't shake off my worries— is it normal to still struggle with walking after two weeks? Although I am experiencing some numbness in my toes, I haven’t encountered any loss of bladder or bowel control, worsening numbness, or weakness in my legs, so I feel stable in that regard. Nonetheless, I fear the possibility of never fully recovering and being left with a lasting disability. The pain is overwhelming, adding to my anxiety about the future.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 4:00:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about the persistent pain and difficulties you’re experiencing with your sciatic nerve injury. Chronic pain can be incredibly frustrating and anxiety-inducing, especially when it hinders basic activities like standing or walking. Let’s address your situation clearly.
Main Points
- Two weeks of ongoing pain after a sciatic nerve injury can be common, especially with initial treatment.
- Your concerns about the numbness and persistent pain are valid, and initial recovery can vary widely among individuals.
- It’s important to optimize your pain management and adjust your exercise techniques to avoid exacerbating your symptoms.
Explanation
Sciatic nerve pain can result from a variety of causes, including herniated discs, muscle spasms, or inflammation. It's common for individuals to experience fluctuations in pain levels during recovery. While some improvement might have occurred initially, returning pain is not unusual in the early stages after an injury. Your experience with numbness is also noteworthy, but the absence of severe symptoms like loss of bladder control is a reassuring sign of stability.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Adjust Pain Management: Since you are taking naproxen and Lyrica, it may be worth discussing your current regimen with your physician or osteopath, especially if you’re not achieving sufficient relief. They may consider adjusting dosages or exploring other medications.
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Modify Exercises: While exercises can be beneficial, if they exacerbate your pain, they may need to be modified. Speak with your osteopath or physiotherapist about which exercises are safe and effective for you. It's crucial to avoid any movements that significantly increase your discomfort.
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Focus on Gentle Mobility: When possible, try gentle stretching or low-impact movements that don’t cause pain. Simple activities like walking short distances while using supportive tools (like a cane) might help maintain mobility without worsening your symptoms.
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Pain Diary: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting what activities cause pain and which provide relief. This can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
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Follow-Up: Keep your upcoming osteopath appointment and express your concerns about the numbness and pain levels. They will be able to provide you with specific guidance tailored to your condition.
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Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises: Implementing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness may help manage anxiety related to your pain and recovery process.
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Stay Positive and Open: Recovery from sciatic nerve pain can take time. While it's natural to worry about future mobility, many individuals do improve significantly with the right approach.
If your symptoms change or worsen in the coming days, ensure you reach out for additional medical advice. Remember, you are taking proactive steps in addressing your condition, and that’s commendable. Let me know if you have more questions or need support!
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