Sciatica is a condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the body’s largest nerve, which extends from the lower spine through the buttocks and down the legs. This often results in sharp, radiating pain along the nerve's pathway. Common culprits include underlying conditions such as a herniated disc or nerve impingement.
At Melbourne Physio Clinic, we recognise how debilitating sciatica can be, whether it’s a mild twinge or chronic discomfort. Our expert team is here to provide personalised care and guide you on the path to recovery, helping you regain mobility and reduce pain effectively.
What is Sciatica?
Understanding what causes your sciatic pain is the first step toward effective treatment. Key contributors include:
Herniated or Bulging Discs: A common cause of nerve compression which can be directly from the bulge or indirectly from inflammation in the area, leading to pain and discomfort.
Piriformis Syndrome: Tension in this small muscle deep in the buttocks can press against the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve will pass through or above the piriformis muscle in about 10% of the population which can make it more vulnerable to compression.
Spinal and/or Foraminal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal due to aging or arthritis can aggravate the sciatic nerve. Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal where the spinal cord runs. Foraminal stenosis is the narrowing of the foramen where the nerve roots exit the spine.
Facet Joint Degeneration: Inflammation or wear in the lower back joints can irritate nearby nerve roots.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe pain, including:
Pain radiating from the lower back to the legs.
Tingling or numbness in the legs or feet.
Muscle weakness, affecting balance or movement.
Loss of sensation in certain cases along the path of the nerve.
Prompt diagnosis is critical to prevent long-term complications, such as permanent nerve damage.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Our physiotherapists use detailed assessments and diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of your sciatica. These may include:
Physical examinations to test strength, reflexes, range of motion of the spine and nerve mobility and muscle tightness.
Imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs, to reveal any spinal abnormalities may be required for more severe cases or to rule out more severe causes. However, it's not necessary in most cases to establish an effective diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosing Sciatica
Evidence-Based Treatments for Sciatica
Treatment at Melbourne Physio Clinic is tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We combine expert knowledge with the latest advancements in physiotherapy to deliver comprehensive care.
Targeted Exercises and Strength Training
Building strength in your core and lower back helps support the spine and reduce nerve pressure. Specific exercises improve flexibility, posture, and overall movement patterns.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques like massage, mobilisation, and dry needling relieve muscle tension and improve spinal movement, reducing pain and inflammation.
Heat and Cold Therapy
Heat and cold therapy can both be valuable tools for managing sciatica, with each offering distinct benefits. The choice between heat or ice depends on your specific condition, and in some cases, both may have their place at different times. Your physiotherapist can guide you in determining which approach is best suited to your needs, ensuring effective relief and promoting recovery.
Ergonomic and Lifestyle Adjustments
Adopting a spine-friendly lifestyle is key to managing and preventing the recurrence of sciatica. This includes creating an ergonomic workspace setup to reduce strain on your spine and incorporating low-impact activities such as swimming or walking to maintain mobility and strength. Low-impact activities will serve as temporary modifications while you’re undergoing rehabilitation. Over time, and with proper guidance, you can gradually progress to high-impact activities if those align with your personal goals. Your physiotherapist will work with you to create a tailored plan that supports both your recovery and long-term aspirations.
Medications and Advanced Options
In more severe cases, medications such as nerve pain relievers or corticosteroid injections may be necessary. If conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical options to alleviate nerve compression can be explored.
Recovery and Long-Term Management
At Melbourne Physio Clinic, we empower you to manage your sciatica effectively. Most cases improve within weeks with the right treatment. Our team provides ongoing support to help you:
Regain mobility and strength.
Make lifestyle changes that promote long-term spinal health.
Return to activities you enjoy, pain-free.
Don’t let sciatica control your life. Contact Melbourne Physio Clinic to schedule an assessment with our expert team. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan to address your symptoms, restore your mobility, and improve your quality of life.