LeBron James has powered through injuries and sky-high expectations his whole career, but this season hit him differently. After sitting out the first 14 games of the 2025–26 run, the Lakers superstar finally revealed what’s really been keeping him off the court: sciatica.
During his first practice back, LeBron spoke openly about how brutal the pain has been and how it’s affected his everyday life.
LeBron James opens up about his health struggles
LeBron kept it honest when reporters asked why he’d been out for so long. Speaking directly to the reporters, he said, “If you ain’t never had it, and people are making jokes about it, I pray you never get it.” It’s not fun.”
At 40, he knows this pain all too well. The Lakers champion already battled sciatica back in the 2023 offseason. Even with all the frustration, LeBron said he’s taking the pain one day at a time. When someone asked if he’s pain-free now, he hinted that he still has to recover.
Lebron also explained that recovery comes in waves. Some days you come out of bed praying that sharp sting isn’t there, and at night you just hope you can sleep without feeling it flare up again. LeBron also credited mobility work, focused exercises, and staying mentally strong for helping him stay on track.
“I won’t take it that far.” He explained how recovery comes in waves. “You wake up one day and hope that when you step down out of the bed, you don’t feel it… You go to bed at night, and you hope that when you get into bed, you don’t feel it.”
Social media blew up after LeBron shared his struggle. Tons of fans showed empathy, recognizing just how painful sciatica can be, and many shared their own experiences dealing with the condition.
Others praised LeBron, reminding everyone that he’s battled sciatica before and will bounce back stronger than ever.
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on Mandatory.
