Sciatica

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Condition

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica being assessed at Gav Noble Physiotherapy in Lisburn

Sciatica describes pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. This large nerve travels from the lower back, through the buttock and down the back of each leg.

Sciatica is a symptom rather than a condition itself. It is commonly linked to irritation around a spinal nerve, sometimes caused by a bulging or herniated disc.

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What to Look For

Common Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica normally affects one side of the body. Symptoms may include:

  • Pain travelling from the lower back into the buttock or leg
  • Burning, shooting or electric-shock-type pain
  • Pins and needles
  • Numbness in the leg or foot
  • Weakness in the leg
  • Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing or sneezing
  • Difficulty walking or standing comfortably

Some people experience leg pain without much back pain.

Recovery

Will Sciatica Get Better?

Most episodes of sciatica improve with time and appropriate treatment. NHS guidance states that sciatica often settles within several weeks, although recovery can take longer for some people.

Prolonged bed rest is generally not recommended. Remaining gently active and gradually returning to normal movement can support recovery.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

At Gav Noble Physiotherapy, we carry out a detailed assessment to identify where the nerve may be irritated and how your movement, strength and daily activities are affecting your symptoms.

Your treatment may include:

  • Advice on comfortable positions and activities
  • Gentle movement and mobility exercises
  • A personalised strengthening programme
  • Manual therapy where appropriate
  • Nerve mobility exercises
  • Guidance on sitting, walking and sleeping
  • A gradual return to work, exercise or sport

Our aim is to reduce irritation, restore normal movement and help you regain confidence in your back and leg.

Exercise is an important part of treatment. NICE guidance recommends supporting people with back pain and sciatica to continue normal activities and use appropriate exercise as part of their recovery.

Scans

Do I Need a Scan?

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Most people with sciatica do not need an MRI scan initially. Sciatica can often be identified from your symptoms and a physical examination.

A scan may be considered if symptoms are severe, are not improving, or if the result would change your treatment.

Common Questions

Sciatica FAQs

Is sciatica caused by a trapped nerve?

Sciatica usually involves irritation or compression of a spinal nerve. The nerve is often sensitive rather than permanently trapped or damaged.

Can walking help sciatica?

Gentle walking can be helpful, provided the distance and pace are adjusted to your symptoms.

Should I stretch my hamstrings?

Not always. Some stretches can aggravate an irritated nerve, so exercises should be selected carefully.

When should I seek urgent help?

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop numbness around the genitals or bottom, loss of bladder or bowel control, rapidly worsening weakness, or symptoms affecting both legs.

Watch

Sciatica Exercises and Advice

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