22/04/2026
1️⃣It’s not just mechanical: Yes, the herniated disc can physically compress the nerve root. But that’s only part of the story.
2️⃣ Chemical inflammation is often the real culprit: The spinal disc itself released inflammatory proteins when injured. The tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) can create a chemical “burn” on the nerve root, which can cause excruciating pain. This explains why some people have severe pain despite small herniations, and why others with large herniations have minimal symptoms. Sciatica is not always about the mechanical aspect of the injury.
3️⃣ Your body often heals the herniation naturally: Research shows that disc herniations, especially larger ones, tend to spontaneously resorb (shrink) over 12 months. It is unclear why this occurs but researchers hypothesise that the extruded disc material gets broken down and reabsorbed.
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