In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Mak discusses the often misunderstood role of inflammation in the healing process, particularly in relation to sciatica pain. He explains the three main phases of tissue healing—acute inflammatory, proliferation, and maturation—and emphasizes that inflammation is a necessary part of recovery. The discussion also covers the causes of sciatica pain, the differences between acute injuries and chronic conditions, and the importance of managing inflammation through movement, nutrition, and sleep.

Disc Healing/Resorption:

• Title: The Spontaneous Regression of a Herniated Lumbar Disc: A Review of the Literature and a Case Report
• Journal: Pain Physician
• Link: https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/2017/March/Vol20-S1/PPJ_20-S1_S139.pdf

McKenzie Method and Directional Preference for Disc Pain:

• Title: Directional preference in the management of low back pain: a systematic review
• Journal: Spine
• Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17694119

Medical Imaging Not Correlating with Pain:

• Title: Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations
• Journal: American Journal of Neuroradiology
• Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25433605

Ice and Modern Healing Principles:

• Title: Revisiting the PRICE and RICE acronyms for soft tissue injury management: a systematic review
• Journal: Sports Medicine
• Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29243037

Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call