Condition
Sciatica
Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of the leg, sometimes reaching as far as the foot. It is not a diagnosis in itself but rather a description of a symptom pattern, and understanding what is causing it is an important part of managing it effectively.
It is estimated that up to 40% of people will experience sciatica at some point in their lives. For some it presents as a mild ache or tingling, for others it can be intense, burning, or debilitating. It commonly affects one side of the body and may be accompanied by numbness, weakness, or a pins and needles sensation in the leg or foot
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Lumbar disc herniation or bulge pressing on a nerve root : the most common cause of true sciatica
- Lumbar spinal stenosis : narrowing of the spinal canal that places pressure on the nerves
- Piriformis syndrome : irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle in the buttock
- Degenerative changes in the lumbar spine affecting the nerve exits
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Prolonged sitting, particularly on hard surfaces or in poor posture
- Muscle imbalances and tightness in the hip and gluteal region
It is also worth noting that not all leg pain is sciatica. Pain, tingling, or numbness in the leg can have other origins, including referred pain from the lumbar joints or hip, and a thorough assessment is needed to distinguish between them.
Condition
How We Can Help
At Angel Spine Clinic a detailed case history and physical examination of the lumbar spine, pelvis, hip, and lower limb helps identify the likely source of nerve irritation and guides the approach to treatment.
Both chiropractic and osteopathic care aim to reduce the mechanical load on the affected nerve, address contributing dysfunction in the surrounding structures, and support the body’s natural recovery process.
Treatment may include:
- Mobilisation or manipulation of the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joint to reduce joint restriction and improve movement
- Soft tissue techniques targeting the piriformis, gluteal muscles, and lumbar musculature where tension is contributing to nerve irritation
- Traction-based approaches to reduce pressure on lumbar discs where appropriate
- Muscle energy techniques to address pelvic and hip imbalances
- Neural mobilisation techniques to help restore normal nerve movement through the lower limb
- Postural assessment and correction, particularly in relation to sitting habits and lumbar support
- Targeted exercise and rehabilitation to stabilise the lower back and reduce recurrence
Most cases of sciatica, including those involving disc herniation, do improve with conservative care. Surgery is rarely the first line of treatment and is generally considered only when symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by significant neurological deficit.
Condition
When a Referral is Needed
While the majority of sciatica presentations are appropriate for chiropractic and osteopathic management, there are situations where prompt medical referral is essential.
We will always refer or advise you to seek urgent medical attention if we feel that it is required.
Your Questions, Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sciatica typically last?
The majority of acute sciatica episodes improve within six to twelve weeks with appropriate conservative care. However, without addressing the underlying cause and contributing factors, recurrence is common. A structured approach that includes rehabilitation and lifestyle advice gives the best chance of lasting recovery.
Should I rest or keep moving with sciatica?
Staying gently active is generally preferable to complete rest. Prolonged bed rest can slow recovery and lead to deconditioning. Your practitioner will advise on which movements and positions to favour and which to avoid during the acute phase.
Can sciatica be caused by sitting too much?
Prolonged sitting, particularly in poor posture or on firm surfaces, can place sustained pressure on the lumbar discs and piriformis muscle, both of which can contribute to sciatic nerve irritation. For many people with desk-based jobs, addressing sitting habits is an important part of both recovery and prevention.
I have been told I have a herniated disc. Does that mean I need surgery?
Not in most cases. The majority of lumbar disc herniations respond well to conservative management, and many disc bulges reduce naturally over time. Surgery is generally reserved for cases where there is severe or progressive neurological deficit, or where conservative care has failed over a prolonged period. Your practitioner can discuss your specific findings and what they mean in practical terms.
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What We Treat
Common Conditions
We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions — from everyday discomfort to complex, long-standing pain.
