Why Cortisone Shots Aren’t the Long-Term Solution for Sciatica Relief
If you’ve ever dealt with sciatica, you know firsthand how it can impact your daily life. From sharp, shooting pain down the back and leg to persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness, sciatica can make even simple activities feel impossible. Often, it appears suddenly, leaving you grasping for quick relief.
Understandably, many people turn to cortisone shots as a solution. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, cortisone injections are among the most common treatments for chronic low back pain and sciatica. But while cortisone shots might provide some temporary relief, they rarely address the root cause of the pain, leaving many in a frustrating cycle of temporary fixes.
The Limitations of Cortisone Shots
Cortisone shots are primarily designed to target inflammation, providing relief for some people with sciatica. However, studies show that the relief is often short-lived—many patients experience only a few weeks to a few months of reduced pain, with only 20-30% achieving relief that lasts beyond three months. This short duration can lead people to seek more injections, depend on pain medications, or even consider surgery, which often isn’t necessary.
So, why don’t cortisone shots work for the long-term?
Why Cortisone Shots Don’t Address the Root Cause
Cortisone shots are effective when addressing what we call “chemical pain,” which is the result of an intense inflammatory response. This type of pain is usually constant, with little relief from movement or position changes, and can benefit from cortisone’s ability to calm the inflammation.
However, most sciatica cases are caused by “mechanical pain,” which behaves differently. Mechanical sciatica symptoms fluctuate based on movement and positioning, such as feeling worse after prolonged sitting and better after stretching or standing. This type of pain doesn’t stem from inflammation alone; instead, it often results from structural issues that put stress on the spine and nerves over time. Cortisone shots can’t correct these structural issues, meaning they only mask the symptoms temporarily.
A Better Approach to Treating Sciatica
Research suggests that 80% of sciatica cases stem from mechanical problems, which means they’re better managed by addressing the underlying issues directly. By focusing on movement patterns, posture, and stability, we can often alleviate sciatica symptoms naturally and prevent them from recurring.
At Synergy Chiropractic & Sports Rehab, we prioritize getting to the root cause of pain rather than relying on temporary fixes. Through personalized assessments and targeted treatments, we identify movement patterns or areas of instability that contribute to sciatica, creating a plan tailored to each individual’s needs. By addressing these mechanical issues, we help clients achieve long-term relief without invasive procedures.
Take a Long-Term, Proactive Approach to Your Health
While cortisone shots can be helpful in specific cases, they don’t offer a sustainable solution for most people with sciatica. For those dealing with mechanical pain, targeted care that addresses the source of the issue can be a game-changer, leading to lasting relief and a return to the activities you love. If you’re struggling with sciatica and would like to explore a natural, personalized approach, reach out to Synergy Chiropractic & Sports Rehab. We’re here to help you regain control and get back to living pain-free.
If this sounds like the relief you’ve been seeking, or if you have any questions about sciatica treatment, contact us today. Let’s work together to find the solution that works best for you!
Want to learn more and find a personalized solution for you? Call Synergy Chiropractic & Sports Rehab today to schedule a free phone consultation!
