Living with sciatica that has not resolved with conservative care or repeat injections is a sign that the underlying disc lesion remains untreated. Regenerative spine care via intra-annular fibrin injection seals the annular tear that is irritating the nerve root, addressing the upstream source of leg pain rather than only managing the downstream symptom.
Key Takeaways
- Sciatica downstream of a disc lesion needs upstream treatment.
- Repeat injections without lasting relief signal the lesion remains.
- The fibrin procedure addresses the tear directly.
- Sealing the tear can resolve the radicular pattern.
- Imaging plus exam confirms candidacy.
What This Guide Covers
- Why does sciatica sometimes persist for years?
- How does regenerative care fit?
- What should patients expect?
- Who is not a candidate?
Why does sciatica sometimes persist for years?
Sciatica persists when the underlying disc lesion remains untreated. Steroid injections calm inflammation around the nerve; they do not seal the tear that is generating the inflammation. The cycle repeats until the lesion is addressed.
How does regenerative care fit?
The fibrin procedure addresses the annular tear directly using FDA-approved fibrin sealant. Sealing the tear reduces the inflammatory leakage that drives nerve irritation, addressing the upstream source of the leg pain.
What should patients expect?
Most patients notice change in the first weeks; full benefit emerges over 3 to 6 months as the tear heals. Outcomes vary; published cohorts show 83% long-term success across all indications.
Who is not a candidate?
Severe stenosis with progressive neurologic compromise, large herniations producing weakness, and bilateral or saddle symptoms warrant urgent surgical evaluation. The procedure does not fit those presentations.
Clinical Note
Patients with long-standing sciatica frequently arrive having had four, five, or more steroid injections without lasting relief. Our clinical staff treats that pattern as evidence that the underlying lesion remains active. The procedure addresses the lesion. When imaging confirms the tear, sealing it is the intervention that breaks the cycle. The Valor team is direct about candidacy — we say yes when imaging fits, no when it does not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the procedure resolve sciatica completely?
Outcomes vary. Many patients see substantial reduction; complete resolution is possible but not guaranteed.
How is this different from a steroid injection?
Steroid injections target inflammation. The procedure delivers a fibrin sealant into the disc itself.
Is it safe with prior injections?
Yes. Prior injection history does not preclude the procedure.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified physician. Treatment decisions depend on your individual medical history and clinical findings. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether the procedure is right for you.
