If you’re struggling with sciatic pain, as a local osteopath, we know just how disruptive it can be. Symptoms can range from sharp pain in the lower back, burning pain in the buttock(s) to tingling or numbness down the leg and into the foot/feet, which can make even simple daily activities challenging.
At the Movement Clinic, we provide gentle, hands-on osteopathic care for sciatica, which can help to reduce pain, restore mobility, and help prevent future flare-ups.
What Is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, exiting between the vertebrae in the lower lumbar and sacral spine (lower back) running through the pelvis and down each leg, all the way to the toes. It has various branches on the way down, as it splits to supply different compartments and tissues of each leg.
When this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can lead to:
- Lower back pain radiating through the buttock and leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg and/or foot
- Muscle weakness affecting movement or balance
- Sharp pain that typically worsens when sitting, bending, or even coughing
Unlike general back pain, sciatica follows a distinct pattern and is typically accompanied by radiating pain/symptoms, as mentioned above. Often, symptoms don’t include lower back pain.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is a general umbrella term for irritation of the sciatic nerve and several conditions/injuries can cause that nerve irritation, including:
- Herniated disc putting pressure on the nerve
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal/foramen – where the nerves come out of the spine)
- Piriformis syndrome (tight muscle in the posterior hip, irritating the nerve)
- Degenerative disc disease or age-related changes in the vertebral discs
- Pregnancy-related changes in posture and spinal pressure
Why Choose Osteopathy for Sciatica Relief
Osteopathy offers an effective sciatica treatment that addresses the root cause of pain, not just the symptoms.
We’ll assess what’s going on with the nerve using clinical examinations and specific tests to figure out where the nerve irritation is coming from. Our trained practitioners will then use gentle, targeted techniques to improve spinal movement, reduce inflammation, and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Key Benefits of Osteopathic Sciatica Treatment:
- Gentle spinal articulations to reduce nerve compression
- Soft tissue massage to ease muscle tension
- Joint mobilisation & stretching to restore flexibility
- Rehabilitative exercises to complete at home – probably including nerve glides
Unfortunately, it probably won’t be a quick fix. But, the combination of the osteopathy treatment modalities above and some simple rehab exercises done consistently, should start to make a difference in the short term and work towards providing lasting sciatica relief by helping the body heal naturally.
When to See an Osteopath
Seek professional care if you experience:
- Persistent pain lasting more than two weeks
- Significant leg weakness or numbness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency)
Early osteopathic sciatica treatment can speed recovery and reduce the risk of long-term nerve damage.
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t let sciatic pain limit your movement. At the Movement Clinic, our experienced team provide safe, effective, and personalised sciatica treatment to help you move freely again. Call 01604 435484, or book online now to schedule your consultation.