Medically reviewed by Dr Diana Chan Xin Hui, Anaesthesiologist & Pain Specialist (MBBS, MMED (Anaesthesia), MCI, FAMS, GDA, EDRA, FIPP). Last Updated: July 14, 2026
Conditions
Sciatica Pain Treatment in Singapore
Our Doctor
Dr Diana Chan: Sciatica Pain Specialist in Singapore
Dr Diana Chan brings over 20 years of clinical experience and a deeply personal approach to pain care. As the former Head of Department of Pain Medicine at Singapore General Hospital and founder of the SingHealth Duke-NUS Pain Centre, she has extensive experience managing complex pain conditions using advanced interventional and multidisciplinary pain management techniques. She has undertaken advanced training in pain medicine overseas, contributed to research through publications in peer-reviewed medical journals, and remains committed to evidence-based care. A mother of two, she understands the impact pain can have on everyday life and is dedicated to helping patients regain comfort, function, and a better quality of life.
- Over 20 years in pain medicine
- Performed over 2000+ basic and advanced pain procedures
- Expertise in minimally invasive, comprehensive and holistic pain management and interventions in Singapore
Why Does Sciatica Pain Happen?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, becomes irritated, inflamed, or compressed. Rather than being a condition itself, sciatica is a symptom of an underlying problem affecting the lower spine or nearby muscles.
When pressure is placed on the nerve, pain can travel from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. Depending on the cause and severity, symptoms may range from occasional discomfort to persistent pain that interferes with walking, sitting, working, or sleeping.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica develops when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. Identifying the underlying cause is important, as it helps determine which treatment is most likely to provide lasting pain relief.
Slipped (Herniated) Disc
A damaged spinal disc can bulge or rupture, placing pressure on the sciatic nerve. This is one of the most common causes of sciatica.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerves in the lower back, leading to leg pain, numbness, or weakness.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As spinal discs naturally wear down with age, they may become less effective at cushioning the spine, increasing the risk of nerve irritation.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle in the buttock can become tight or inflamed, irritating the nearby sciatic nerve and causing symptoms similar to sciatica.
Spondylolisthesis
When one vertebra slips forward over another, it can place pressure on the nerves exiting the spine.
What Does Sciatica Pain Feel Like?
Sciatica affects everyone differently, but it typically causes pain along the path of the sciatic nerve. Symptoms usually affect one side of the body and may come and go or gradually worsen over time.
Pain Travelling From Your Lower Back Into Your Leg
The hallmark symptom of sciatica is pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and radiates down the back or side of the leg. The pain may stop at the knee or extend all the way to the foot, depending on which part of the nerve is affected.
Burning or Electric Shock Pain
Many people describe sciatica as a burning, shooting, stabbing, or electric shock-like pain rather than a dull ache. Sudden movements, coughing, or sneezing may temporarily make the pain worse.
Numbness or Tingling
Some patients experience “pins and needles”, tingling, or reduced sensation in parts of the leg or foot. These symptoms occur because the compressed nerve is not transmitting signals normally.
Leg Weakness
More severe nerve compression may cause weakness in the leg or foot, making it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or lift the front of the foot (commonly known as foot drop). This should be assessed promptly by a medical professional.
Pain That Gets Worse When Sitting
Sitting for prolonged periods often increases pressure on the sciatic nerve, making symptoms worse. Many people find temporary relief by standing, changing position, or walking for short periods.
When Should You See a Pain Specialist for Sciatica?
Many cases of sciatica improve with time, activity modification, medications, or physiotherapy. However, if pain persists or continues to affect your daily life, a pain specialist can assess the cause and recommend targeted, non-surgical treatments to relieve pain and improve function.
You should consider seeing a pain specialist if:
- Your sciatica has lasted for more than 4 to 6 weeks
- Pain continues despite medication, physiotherapy, or chiropractic treatment
- Sitting, walking, driving, or sleeping has become difficult because of the pain
- You experience recurrent flare-ups that keep returning
- You want to explore non-surgical treatment options before considering spine surgery
- Your doctor has recommended injections or interventional pain management
Non-Surgical Sciatica Treatments
If your sciatica has not improved with rest, medication, or physiotherapy, surgery may not be your only option. Dr Diana Chan offers a range of minimally invasive treatments that target the source of nerve pain, with every treatment plan personalised to your symptoms, diagnosis, and recovery goals.
Epidural Steroid Injection
How it works
An epidural steroid injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication into the space surrounding the irritated nerve in the lower spine. By reducing inflammation around the nerve root, the injection helps relieve pain travelling down the leg while allowing the nerve to recover.
The procedure is performed using imaging guidance to ensure the medication is delivered precisely to the affected area.
Benefits
- Reduces inflammation around the nerve
- Helps relieve leg pain and numbness
- May improve walking and sitting comfort
- Minimally invasive with no large incisions
Nerve Root Block
How it works
A nerve root block is a targeted injection placed around the individual spinal nerve responsible for your symptoms. It contains local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce irritation and provide pain relief.
Because the injection targets one specific nerve, it can also help confirm exactly which nerve is causing your symptoms before considering more invasive treatment.
Benefits
- Targeted pain relief
- Helps identify the source of pain
- Reduces inflammation
- Can delay or avoid surgery in suitable patients
How it works
Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat generated through a specialised needle to interrupt pain signals from selected nerves. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is a modification of radiofrequency ablation and uses lower temperatures to massage the nerves and results in nerve neuromodulation and decreased sensitivity of the nerve. While it is not suitable for every type of sciatica, it can be effective when back pain from the spine is contributing to ongoing nerve irritation.
Dr Diana Chan carefully evaluates whether RFA/PRF is appropriate based on your symptoms, examination findings, and imaging.
Benefits
- Long-lasting pain relief for suitable patients
- Minimally invasive
- No surgical incision
- Can reduce reliance on pain medication
Neuroplasty (Adhesiolysis)
How it works
Neuroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a fine catheter to gently release scar tissue surrounding irritated nerves. Medication can then be delivered directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and improve pain relief.
This treatment is often considered when conventional injections have not provided sufficient relief.
Benefits
- Targets scar tissue restricting nerves
- Improves medication delivery
- Minimally invasive
- May help chronic or recurrent sciatica
How it works
Nucleoplasty uses a specialised needle inserted into the affected spinal disc to remove a small amount of disc material. This reduces pressure within the disc, helping relieve compression on the nearby sciatic nerve.
The procedure is performed through a tiny puncture under imaging guidance without removing the entire disc.
Benefits
- Minimally invasive alternative to surgery
- Reduces pressure on the affected nerve
- Small puncture with no large incision
- Short recovery time for suitable patients
How Dr Diana Chan Treats Sciatica Pain
No two cases of sciatica are exactly alike. Dr Diana Chan takes the time to identify the underlying cause of your pain before recommending a personalised treatment plan, focusing on effective, minimally invasive options wherever appropriate.
Comprehensive Assessment
Your consultation includes a detailed review of your symptoms, medical history, and MRI or imaging (if available) to identify the source of your sciatica and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treat the Source, Not Just the Symptoms
Rather than simply managing pain, treatment is tailored to address the underlying cause of your sciatica, whether it's a slipped disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve inflammation.
Minimally Invasive Before Surgery
Many patients can find relief without major surgery. When appropriate, Dr Diana Chan recommends targeted, minimally invasive procedures to reduce pain and improve function before considering surgical options.
Why Patients Choose Dr Diana Chan for Sciatica Pain
Leading Specialist in Pain Medicine and forerunner in Pain Medicine Research
More Than 20 Years of Clinical Experience
Precision-Guided Spine Injections
Focus on Non-Surgical Sciatica Treatment
Singapore's Only Female Private Pain Specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sciatica heal without surgery?
Yes. Many cases improve with medications, physiotherapy, and minimally invasive pain treatments. Surgery is usually only considered if symptoms are severe or do not improve with conservative treatment.
Are epidural injections painful?
Most patients tolerate epidural injections well. You may feel brief pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure, but it is generally quick and performed under imaging guidance for accuracy.
How long do injections last?
Pain relief varies depending on the individual and the cause of sciatica. Some patients experience relief for weeks, while others benefit for several months.
Can sciatica come back?
Yes. Sciatica can return if the underlying spinal condition persists or worsens. Ongoing exercise, good posture, and appropriate treatment can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Can physiotherapy cure sciatica?
Physiotherapy helps many people reduce pain, improve movement, and strengthen the spine. However, some patients may also require injections or other treatments if nerve compression persists.
What's the difference between an orthopaedic surgeon and a pain specialist?
An orthopaedic surgeon performs surgery when needed. A pain specialist focuses on relieving pain through non-surgical treatments such as targeted injections and minimally invasive procedures.
Can I drive afterwards?
It depends on the treatment performed. For some procedures, you may be advised not to drive until the following day, so it’s best to arrange for someone to accompany you.
Can I use insurance?
Yes, many consultations and procedures may be covered by Integrated Shield Plans or corporate insurance. Our team can help verify your coverage and assist with the claims process.