What sciatica is
Sciatica is not a diagnosis on its own. It is a description of pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, from the low back or buttock down the back of the leg, sometimes as far as the foot. It is often described as burning, shooting or electric, and can come with tingling, numbness or weakness.
The most common cause is a nerve root that has been irritated where it leaves the spine, often by a bulging disc. Tight muscles in the buttock, narrowing around the nerve with age, and the changes of pregnancy can also produce very similar symptoms.
How we assess it
Because several different problems can cause leg pain, a careful exam matters. We ask where the pain goes, what makes it better or worse, and whether you have noticed any numbness or weakness. Then we check the movement of your spine and hips and test the strength, reflexes and sensation in your legs.
These tests tell us which nerve is likely involved, how irritated it is, and whether conservative care is the right place to start. If there are signs of significant nerve compression, we refer you for imaging or to a specialist straight away.
How we treat it
Treatment for sciatica is gentle, especially early on when the nerve is irritable. It may include:
- Low-force adjustments or flexion-distraction on a specialised table to take pressure off the irritated area
- Soft tissue work for the buttock and hip muscles that often tighten up around a sore nerve
- Positions that ease the pain, so you know how to settle a flare-up at home
- Nerve-gliding and strengthening exercises that help the nerve move freely and the back stay supported
- Advice on sitting, driving and sleeping so daily life stops aggravating it
For pregnant patients, we use padded tables and side-lying positions and avoid any pressure on the abdomen.
How long it takes
Sciatica usually takes longer to settle than simple back pain, because irritated nerves calm down slowly. Many people notice the leg pain easing within the first two to three weeks, even if the back remains stiff for a while longer. We track how far down the leg the pain travels, because pain moving back up toward the spine is a good sign.
We re-examine you regularly. If your symptoms are not improving, or if you notice new weakness, we change course and refer you to your doctor or an orthopedic specialist.
What you can do at home
While the nerve is irritated, avoid sitting for long stretches and get up to walk for a few minutes every half hour. Find the position that eases your leg pain and use it to settle flare-ups. Keep walking within comfortable limits, because gentle movement helps the nerve recover faster than rest. Avoid heavy lifting and long drives until the leg pain has started to retreat.
When to see us
Book a visit if you have pain, tingling or numbness running into your leg, if sitting or driving has become difficult, or if you are pregnant and struggling with low back and leg pain. No referral is needed.
