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Sciatica
Understanding, Diagnosing, & Treating
Sciatica
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Sciatica
Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down each leg.
It is not a diagnosis in itself, but a symptom of irritation or compression affecting the sciatic nerve or the structures around it.
Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain, and often affect one side of the body.
Signs & Symptoms of Sciatica
Symptoms typically affect the lower back, buttock and back of one leg, and may include:
- Sharp, burning or shooting pain down the leg
- Buttock pain
- Tingling or pins and needles
- Numbness
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
- Discomfort when coughing or sneezing (in some cases)
What Can Cause Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed.
Common causes include a prolapsed (slipped) disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative changes in the spine, or tight muscles in the lower back or buttock that irritate the nerve.
Treatment Options For Sciatica
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving movement and addressing the underlying cause of nerve irritation.
Treatment may include:
- Targeted exercise therapy (extension or flexion-based depending on presentation)
- Core strengthening to support the lower back
- Manual therapy and soft tissue treatment
- Advice on posture, movement and activity modification
- Acupuncture to help manage pain and symptoms
- Progressive return to normal activity and loading
At Balanced Physiotherapy, we will assess your symptoms and movement patterns to identify the cause of your sciatica and create a personalised rehabilitation programme to reduce pain, improve function and support a safe return to daily activities.
