That sharp, shooting pain down your leg can make daily life feel impossible. If you struggle with sciatica, you know how frustrating it is when the pain finally fades, only to flare up again weeks later.
At Spine Group Beverly Hills in Santa Monica, CA, Dr. John Regan helps patients understand and resolve recurrent back pain and sciatica. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, often by a herniated disc. Understanding why this nerve irritation persists is the first step toward finding lasting relief.
Sciatica often feels like a chronic cycle because patients mistake slow healing or new muscle strains for a brand-new injury.
The good news is that the body is highly capable of healing itself. According to the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (2026), between 70% and 80% of patients experience significant improvement with conservative care.
When a disc herniates, your body naturally triggers an inflammatory response to break down and clear the tissue. This process gradually removes pressure from the nerve root.
At our practice, we monitor your recovery closely. We ensure your body is healing as expected and help you avoid unnecessary treatments.
Everyday physical stresses and lifestyle choices can keep your sciatic nerve irritated and delay your recovery.
The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation notes that modifiable factors like obesity and smoking can drive the development and persistence of symptoms. Occupational hazards also play a major role in keeping the nerve inflamed.
Common triggers that can prolong your pain include:
We work with you to identify these daily triggers. Our team helps you modify your ergonomics to protect your spine.
You can break the cycle of pain by building a stronger spine and helping the nerve move freely.
The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (2023) recommends structured physical rehabilitation programs that focus on trunk muscle activation and joint mobilization. These exercises strengthen your deep core, creating an internal brace for your lower back.
Additionally, a study in Cureus (2025) found that combining neurodynamic mobilization with physiotherapy effectively reduces radiating leg pain. These specialized movements, often called nerve glides, help the sciatic nerve slide smoothly through surrounding tissues.
If conservative therapies do not provide relief, Dr. John Regan offers advanced options. He specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery to relieve nerve pressure directly with minimal downtime.
You do not have to live with the constant worry of another flare-up. To explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation with Spine Group Beverly Hills in Santa Monica, CA today.
