Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It often presents as sharp, burning, or shooting pain on one side of the body and may be accompanied by tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the leg or foot.

Common causes include disc bulges, spinal stenosis, muscle tightness (such as the piriformis), or poor posture and repetitive movement patterns.

Physiotherapy plays an important role in managing sciatica by addressing both pain and its underlying cause. We will assess posture, movement, strength, and flexibility to identify contributing factors.

Treatment will include targeted exercises to reduce nerve irritation, improve spinal mobility, and strengthen supporting muscles, utilising manual therapy, education on posture, activity modification, and guidance on safe movement can help relieve symptoms, prevent recurrence, and restore normal function over time.