by Zeke Okely – Physiotherapist
The mighty sciatica, that lovely pain that can come on for seemingly no reason! Here at Wisdom Physiotherapy we can help treat this familiar complaint.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is an umbrella term used to describe a common condition that can lead to pain in the lower back and legs. It occurs when pain travels along the path of the sciatic nerve which starts in the lower spine and travels through the hip and buttock and down the back of the leg. Symptoms of sciatica can include lower back pain, leg pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in your leg.
You should seek medical attention immediately if you have problems controlling your bladder or bowels, or have severe weakness, numbness, or pain.
What causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is caused by pressure and irritation of the sciatic nerve which originates from the lower lumbar spine and travels through the buttock into the leg. Any condition structurally impacting or compressing the sciatic nerve may cause sciatica symptoms.
Risk factors for sciatica include:
• Age-related changes to the spine
• Obesity, which can put extra pressure on the spine
• Jobs where you twist the spine or pick up heavy loads
• Prolonged sitting
• Diabetes, which can increase the risk of nerve damage
How can Physio help?
The early-stage sciatica treatment focuses on reducing your pain with hands on therapy, dry needling, gentle nerve stretching, and spinal mobility to reduce the sensitivity of the irritated nerve. People usually experience great relief and a major reduction in symptoms in 1-4 visits.
To ensure long-term success and reduce the likelihood of recurrence, a customised rehabilitation plan is essential. This involves strengthening and controlling the muscles that support your lower back and buttocks whilst also improving your spinal mobility. This is super important as it will make it possible for your body to handle the demands of daily life and recreational activities you enjoy.
Great exercises for Sciatica:
1. Gluteal stretch with a massage ball
2. Lying lumber spine rotation
3. Cat cow
4. Sciatic nerve glide in sitting
5. Sciatic nerve glide in lying
In summary, sciatica is a common condition that can be effectively treated with high-quality physiotherapy treatment. It rarely requires scans or more invasive treatments like surgery or cortisone injections.
If you are experiencing pain, don’t put up with it, call us to make an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists and start your recovery today. Call (08) 6389 2947 or click here to book online.
