PHYSIOMOTIVEWhat sciatica is
Sciatica is pain along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of the leg. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis.
The usual causes are irritation of a nerve root in the lower spine, often from a disc bulge (slip disc or PIVD), narrowing around the nerve, or tight muscles in the buttock pressing on the nerve. Each cause is treated a little differently, which is why the assessment matters.
Common symptoms
- Pain from the lower back or buttock into the leg, usually on one side
- Burning, electric or pins-and-needles feeling in the leg or foot
- Numbness or a heavy, weak feeling in the leg
- Pain that is worse with sitting, bending forward, coughing or sneezing
- Relief when walking or lying in a certain position
How we assess and treat it
Dr. Chinmay checks how your spine moves, how the nerve responds to tension tests, and the strength, sensation and reflexes in your legs. This shows whether the problem is coming from the spine, the buttock or both.
- Manual therapy to ease stiff joints and tight muscles around the spine and hip
- Nerve mobilisation to help the nerve glide more freely
- A graded exercise plan for the core, hips and legs
- Advice on sitting, lifting and sleeping positions, including desk set-up
- Electrotherapy or dry needling where they suit your case
What to expect at your first visit
You will be asked how the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how long you sit at work. After the physical examination, the findings and the plan are explained in plain language. You leave with exercises you can start at home. If your case needs a scan or a spine specialist, you will be told.
When to see a doctor first
Physiotherapy is not right for every problem. Get medical attention promptly if you have any of these:
- Loss of control over urine or bowels, or difficulty passing urine
- Numbness around the groin, genitals or inner thighs
- Weakness in the leg that is getting worse, or a foot that drags or slaps
- Severe pain that does not ease with any position, or pain after a fall or accident
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer along with new back and leg pain
Frequently asked questions
Can sciatica get better without surgery?
Many people improve with conservative care such as physiotherapy over a number of weeks. How quickly depends on the cause and how severe the nerve irritation is. If your findings suggest that surgery or injections need a specialist opinion, we will tell you.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the cause, how long you have had symptoms, and how you respond. A plan is set after the first assessment and reviewed as you progress.
Do I need an MRI before I come?
Not always. The first step is a physical assessment. Imaging is advised when there are warning signs, when symptoms are not improving as expected, or when a procedure is being considered. Bring any scans or reports you already have.
Should I rest in bed?
Short periods of rest in a comfortable position are fine. Long bed rest usually slows recovery. We guide you on staying active in a way that does not aggravate the nerve.