When to start physical therapy for sciatica and lower back pain,while in pain or wait until the pain is reduced?

Sciatica: Excellent question. In general, medications such as steroids, anti-inflammatory medications, neuropathic pain medicine, and muscle relaxers are prescribed first to relieve the pain followed by physical therapy or chiropractic care. If the pain continues, then cortisone injections or nerve blocks are performed. If that doesn't work then surgery is indicated for pain relief.

Not Known: Nothing can work fast, however if PT can relieve pressure on the spine where the nerve is getting pinched gets relief than pain relief can occur. If you are not improving after 2-3 weeks with regular therapy sessions, I would suggest seeing a pain/spine specialist to see if a cortisone injection might be helpful.