SCIATICA
Are you experiencing sharp, shooting pain that radiates from your lower back down your leg? You may be dealing with sciatica, a common condition that can significantly impact your daily life. At PhysioDirect, we understand the frustration and limitations sciatica can cause. Our team of expert physiotherapists is dedicated to helping you find relief and regain your mobility. Whether your sciatica stems from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other factors, we offer personalised treatment plans to address your specific needs. Don't let sciatica control your life – discover how our comprehensive approach can help you move comfortably again.
What Are The Causes Of Sciatica
Sciatica pain, characterised by discomfort radiating along the sciatic nerve from the lower back to the legs, can stem from various sources.
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A common culprit is a herniated disc, where the inner core of a spinal disc protrudes and presses on the sciatic nerve.
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Spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal, can also compress nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve.
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Piriformis syndrome, involving the tightening of a buttock muscle, may irritate the nerve.
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Spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips over another, can potentially compress the sciatic nerve as well.
Other factors contributing to sciatica include trauma or injury to the lower back, prolonged sitting or a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and pregnancy.
Given the diverse causes, seeking professional help for persistent sciatica pain is crucial to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
What Treatments Help With Sciatica
At PhysioDirect, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating sciatica pain.
Our experienced physiotherapists begin with a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your discomfort. This allows us to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
We employ a variety of manual therapy techniques to release tension and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve, providing immediate relief. Our treatment plans often include specific exercises designed to improve flexibility, strengthen core muscles, and stabilise the lower back.
We provide postural correction and ergonomic advice to minimise pressure on the sciatic nerve during daily activities. Heat or cold therapy may be used to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.
We also utilise neural mobilisation techniques to free up the sciatic nerve from surrounding structures.
Our goal is to address your current sciatica pain and empower you with the knowledge and tools to prevent future episodes. We believe in a holistic approach that combines in-clinic treatments with self-care measures, such as maintaining good posture, engaging in low-impact exercises, and using supportive pillows while sleeping.
Remember, sciatica can take 2-12 weeks to improve, as nerves heal slower than other structures. However, with our comprehensive care, most cases show significant improvement. We're here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the best possible care for your sciatica pain.