For the first time in 23 years, LeBron James, considered one of the greatest players in NBA history, has been out of action at the start of an NBA season. This news came as a major shock not only to Los Angeles Lakers fans but to the entire basketball world. LeBron James, known for his fitness, discipline, and long career, is suddenly battling a medical condition that can affect both ordinary people and professional athletes.
Lakers management officially confirmed on October 9th that LeBron James is suffering from sciatica, which will prevent him from playing in the opening weeks of the 2025-26 NBA season. This condition can cause severe pain and numbness from the lower back to the legs.
What is sciatica? A Common But Serious Nerve Problem
Sciatica is not a disease but a neurological condition caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve—the longest and thickest nerve in the body. This nerve originates at the base of the spine and runs down the hips, thighs, knees, and soles of the feet.
When this nerve is compressed, a person may experience:
- Severe pain in the lower back
- Burning sensation in the hips and thighs
- Tingling or numbness in the legs
- Difficulty walking or sitting
This condition is even more severe for athletes because of the constant running, jumping, and rapid movements involved.
Why did LeBron James get sciatica?
Sciatica can have many causes, but it’s usually caused by lower back problems. These include:
- Herniated Disc
- Spinal Wear
- Muscle Imbalance
- Excessive Physical Strain
In LeBron James’ case, doctors suspect he may also be suffering from piriformis syndrome. This is a condition in which a deep muscle in the hip compresses the sciatic nerve. This problem is particularly common in athletes because of the constant unusual pressure on their bodies.
What did the Lakers say? When will the medical reevaluation take place?
The Los Angeles Lakers released a statement stating that LeBron James’ condition will be re-evaluated in three to four weeks. This means that the medical team will determine by early November how much the pain has subsided and whether he can resume training.
According to this initial estimate, LeBron James may miss at least six to ten NBA games. However, if the situation remains serious, this number could increase even further.
Will he return in November? Or will the wait be longer?
Even if the medical report comes back positive in November, it doesn’t mean LeBron will return to the court immediately. Even after recovering from sciatica, he still needs to undergo procedures such as:
- Physical therapy
- Muscle strength training
- Game fitness
- Injury prevention exercises
To fully prepare the body for a return to a high-intensity sport like the NBA, it’s important. Therefore, it’s likely that LeBron’s return will occur in December 2025 or even early 2026.
Could this problem jeopardize LeBron’s career?
This question is on every fan’s mind right now. The good news is that in many cases, sciatica resolves completely within a few weeks and doesn’t return. But medical science also recognizes that:
- It may recur repeatedly in some patients.
- Severe cases may require surgery.
- Long-term nerve damage may occur.
Few players in NBA history have recovered from sciatic nerve surgery, but LeBron James’ age—he will turn 41 in December—makes this situation more challenging.
What could be the worst-case scenario?
In the worst-case scenario, if the pressure on the nerves persists, LeBron could face:
- Permanent nerve pain
- Difficulty walking
- Deciding to quit professional sports
However, given LeBron James’ fitness, medical support, and experience, experts believe this scenario is highly unlikely.
A ray of hope for fans
LeBron James’ career has always been full of challenges—and he has bounced back every time. Modern medical technology, an experienced physio team, and LeBron’s own discipline give hope that he will return to the court once again.
Even if his return takes time, NBA history shows that LeBron James should never be underestimated.
FAQs
Q. Why is LeBron James not playing at the start of the NBA season?
A. LeBron James is sidelined due to a sciatica-related nerve issue affecting his lower back and right leg.
Q. What exactly is sciatica?
A. Sciatica is nerve pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs.
Q. How long is LeBron James expected to be out?
A. He is expected to miss at least a few weeks, with a medical re-evaluation scheduled in early November.
Q. Can sciatica end an NBA player’s career?
A. In severe or recurring cases, sciatica can become career-threatening, but many athletes recover with proper treatment.
Q. When could LeBron James return to the court?
A. If recovery goes well, he could return in December, though a later comeback is also possible.
