What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is one of the most common complaints of leg pain seen in our physiotherapy clinic. The name sciatica is widely used and despite this, sciatica is not actually a diagnosis. It is a term used to describe compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve in the spine which results in pain that travels from the back to the buttocks and down the leg.
What is the Sciatic Nerve?
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, originating from several nerve roots in lower part of your spine. The nerve travels from your low back and down through your buttocks and into the back of your legs. It supplies power to your muscles and sensory feedback to your brain. A compressed or irritated nerve causes sciatica.
What is the cause of Sciatica?
- Disc prolapse or bulge
- Facet joint wear and tear
- Narrowing of spinal canal or facet joints
- Osteoarthritis that effects the spinal joints
- Spondylolisthesis
What Are the Symptoms of Sciatica?
- Pins and needles in the leg
- Numbness in the lower leg
- Sharpe, burning and electric shock pains
- Back pain/buttock pain
- Struggling to walk or stand for extended periods of time
- Worsen with sitting, coughing or sneezing.
- Weakness in the leg
How Long Do the Symptoms Last for?
Recovery time can vary for everything. Most people may feel better in a few weeks, but others can take several months to heal. Factors may include:
- What is the underlying cause
- How severe the nerve irritation is
- Your general health and activity levels
- Your rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
Finding The Cause
A Physiotherapist will take a detailed history and physical examination. The consultation would involve:
- Assessment and examination of the lumbar spine
- Neurological examination which checks your nerve mobility, sensation, power and reflexes
- Functional testing
You may need an MRI if your symptoms are severe, progressive or not responding to physiotherapy treatment.
Treatment for Sciatica
You can treat most Sciatic problems without surgery. The mainstay of treatment is physiotherapy and keeping active. This would include:
- Manual therapy to the spine to include manipulation and joint mobilisations
- Exercise therapy
- Nerve mobility exercises
- Activity modification
- Pain management to include prescribed medications
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
If your sciatica persists and begins to affect your lifestyle such as your ability to work, exercise or sleep, seeing a physiotherapist can help identify the root cause of the symptoms through accurate diagnosis and devise the most effective treatment plan.
So, if you are struggling with back or leg pain, our experienced physiotherapist at Rugby Physio can provide an accurate assessment and design the most appropriate treatment plan to get your back to what you love doing.
Call our friendly team to book an appointment with one of our experienced Spinal Physiotherapists