Could LeBron James' Sciatica Injury End His Career? What Doctors Are Saying
LeBron James has not played for the Los Angeles Lakers this season as he recovers from sciatica, a nerve irritation in his glute. Initially, the injury was expected to sideline him for all preseason games, with a 3–4 week recovery announced on October 9. However, his return has been delayed.
Before a recent game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Lakers coach JJ Redick revealed that LeBron now aims to return in the second or third week of November. This means the four-time MVP, entering his 23rd NBA season, will miss at least the first 10 regular-season games.
Medical Insight on Sciatica
EssentiallySports consulted Dr. Jay Shah, Medical Director of Sports Medicine at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, to explain the injury. He described sciatica as an umbrella term for various conditions involving nerve impingement.
“Sciatica is an umbrella term and can mean a few different things. But overall, there is a nerve impingement,” Dr. Shah said. “Recovery can take a couple of weeks or a couple of months.”
The prolonged recovery has sparked fan speculation that this injury might lead LeBron James toward retirement, though no official statement has been made in that regard.
Additional Context
- LeBron is 40 years old and in his 23rd NBA season.
- He has missed at least 10 regular-season games so far.
The Lakers and fans remain hopeful for his full recovery and timely return.
Summary: LeBron James' extended recovery from sciatica has raised retirement concerns, but medical experts note that recovery time varies widely depending on nerve impingement severity.