Sciatica

What causes Sciatic pain?

Sciatica is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve – a very large nerve that originates from the lower lumbar spine and travels through the buttock into the leg as far as the back of the knee.

Pressure on the Sciatic nerve can result from a number of reasons including:

  • piriformis syndrome (tightness of the piriformis muscle in the buttock that compresses the sciatic nerve)
  • spinal misalignments, vertebral dysfunction
  • herniated disc, disc prolapse
  • osteoarthritis
  • poor posture – wearing high heels, prolonged sitting, poor mattress
  • poor lifting technique and poor bending habits
  • spinal compression due to osteoporosis
sciatica Balmain
Balmain sciatica

Diagnosis

Since there are many disorders that can cause sciatica, your physiotherapists’ first task is to determine the exact cause of your sciatic nerve interference.

Physiotherapy treatment always begins with a thorough history, spinal, orthopaedic and neurological examination. Special diagnostic imaging investigations such as X-ray, CT and MRI scans may also be required to accurately diagnose your sciatica.

Treatment

By removing pressure on the sciatic nerve, sciatica and the associated pain can be relieved. The physiotherapy offered will have the goal of reducing muscular tension of the lower back and buttocks, as well as targeting poorly moving spinal joints.

This is achieved by using a combination of the following techniques:

  • Spinal mobilisations
  • Massage therapy and trigger point therapy
  • Stretching tight muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments
  • Ultrasound and other electrical stimulation devices
  • Advice in relation to how to minimise pressure and irritation of the sciatic nerve

In addition to this, you will be given a series of home stretching exercises and asked to apply ice and heat to help aid your recovery.

If you are suffering with sciatica at the moment please do not delay – you can achieve the best results when you address the symptoms early. Please contact us to begin your care today!

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE

sciatica treatment Balmain

Book Now or Call 02 9713 2455 for your Physio Appointment