u/comeback_season-

I’m 28M and have been dealing with sciatica for about 6 months from a 1.5 mm L4-L5 and 2 mm L5-S1 herniation.
I’ve improved a lot, but I keep having setbacks whenever I strain my back or do something awkward. Before this I lifted heavy, played soccer, ran, etc., and I really want to get back to that level.
Reading Reddit has made me worried because it seems like so many people still have flare-ups years later.
Has anyone with a similar herniation eventually become completely pain-free and gone back to heavy lifting/sports? Even if it took a year or longer? Would especially love to hear from people who are a few years out.