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Banish Sciatica Pain: How Physiotherapy Can Help You Live Pain-Free

Writer's picture: Nicky EdwardsNicky Edwards

The word sciatica is written on a wooden block. There is a blue background and some blue and white pills to the right of the text

Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain along the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. This pain can vary from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation, or even extreme pain that makes it difficult to sit or stand.


This can make life pretty miserable.


Understanding the nature of sciatica and how physiotherapy can help manage and alleviate this pain and so that you can avoid or stop taking the painkillers is crucial for anyone suffering from this condition.


What is Sciatica?


Sciatica is not a diagnosis in itself, but a symptom of an underlying medical condition. It is often caused by a herniated disc (commonly referred to as a ‘slipped disc’), spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. These conditions can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to pain, inflammation, and sometimes numbness in the affected leg.


Symptoms of Sciatica


Female torso of a woman wearing beige trousers. She is holding her back and leg as if in pain.

Common symptoms of sciatica include:


  • Pain in the lower back or buttock that radiates down one leg

  • Burning or tingling sensation down the leg

  • Weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving the leg or foot

  • A constant pain on one side of the buttock

  • Sharp pain that may make it difficult to stand up or walk


How Physiotherapy Can Help


Physiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for sciatica. It focuses on reducing pain and improving function. Research supports the efficacy of physiotherapy in managing sciatica through a combination of methods:


1. Pain Relief

We use various techniques such as manual therapy, joint mobilisation and manipulation, neural mobilisation and exercise based therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that manual therapy, including spinal manipulation, can be particularly effective in providing short-term relief from sciatic pain (Bronfort et al., 2010). Heat and cold therapy can also help reduce muscle spasms and inflammation, providing immediate pain relief.


2. Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening the muscles around the spine and core provides better support for the back. We teach you exercises that enhance strength, stability, and flexibility. Research indicates that core stabilisation exercises can significantly improve pain and functional status in patients with chronic low back pain, including those with sciatica (Akbari et al., 2008). Pilates is a great way to do this. At Chiltern Physiotherapy we have 10 classes a week all taught by our expert physiotherapists. If you would like to trial a class, please call 01923 283845 to arrange a convenient time.


3. Stretching

Stretching exercises specifically target the muscles that might be contributing to nerve compression. Stretching the hamstrings, piriformis, and other lower back muscles can relieve tension and reduce sciatic pain. A study by Cleland et al. (2006) found that a comprehensive stretching program significantly reduced sciatic symptoms.


4. Posture Correction

Poor posture can exacerbate sciatica symptoms. We teach you how to maintain proper posture during daily activities to prevent further irritation of the sciatic nerve. Ergonomic training and postural correction can alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence, as supported by evidence in workplace health research (Karsh et al., 2001).


5. Education and Prevention

A significant part of our role as physiotherapists teaching you about your condition. Understanding the causes of sciatica and learning how to manage symptoms can prevent future episodes. We provide guidance on ergonomics, body mechanics, and lifestyle modifications to help you do the things you enjoy and stay pain-free.

 

If you or someone you know is struggling with sciatica, don't let pain control your life.

At Chiltern Physiotherapy our team of expert physiotherapists are dedicated to helping you find relief and get back to your daily activities without pain. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life.


Call us on 01923 283845 or book online here.


Remember, early intervention is key to preventing chronic pain and improving your quality of life. Let us help you on your journey to recovery.

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45 Lower Road, Chorleywood, WD3 5LQ

Opening Hours:

Mon - Thursday: 7am - 8pm 

Friday: 7am - 5pm

​​Saturday: 8am - 1pm ​

Sunday: Closed

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