Sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the leg, caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots that form it. The most common cause is a herniated, or slipped, disc pressing on a nerve.
Although sciatica can be very painful, most people recover without surgery. Physiotherapy helps calm the nerve, restore movement and protect your back for the future.
Common signs and symptoms of sciatica & slipped disc
- Pain from the buttock down the back or side of the leg
- Numbness, tingling or pins and needles in the leg or foot
- Leg pain worse than back pain
- Pain made worse by sitting, coughing or bending
- Weakness in the leg or foot
How we help
A detailed assessment identifies which nerve is involved and which movements ease or worsen your symptoms. This guides a programme of directional exercises (McKenzie therapy), nerve mobilisation and core stability.
If there are signs of significant nerve compression, we refer you promptly to our spine surgeon or neurosurgeon.
Treatments we use
- McKenzie therapy
- Nerve mobilisation and nerve gliding exercises
- Core stabilisation
- Manual therapy and traction where appropriate
- Pain relief with TENS
- Graded return to work and activity
Recovery and what to expect
Many people with sciatica improve considerably within six to twelve weeks. Leg pain usually eases before numbness does.
Sciatica & Slipped Disc: frequently asked questions
Will I need surgery for a slipped disc?
Most people do not. Surgery is considered when there is severe or worsening weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or pain that does not improve with good conservative care.
Is it safe to exercise with sciatica?
Yes, the right exercises help. We will show you which movements to do and which to avoid while the nerve settles.
When is sciatica an emergency?
Seek urgent care for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin or genitals, or rapidly increasing leg weakness.