Sciatica in 30 seconds

We often hear patients in clinic report that they have ‘sciatica’. But did you know, Sciatica isn’t a diagnosis, it’s a group of symptoms relating to irritation/compression of the sciatic nerve.

The sciatic nerve is easily the largest nerve in the body, running from nerve roots in the lower back and pelvis. Think 5 streams coming together to make a river that runs down the back of your leg and then splits into tributaries supplying your lower leg and foot.

In particular, the sciatic nerve provides movement to leg and foot muscles and sensation to the back and side of the lower leg, as well as the bottom of the foot.

When it becomes compressed or irritated, patients usually complain of

• Pain below the knee and into the foot

• Back pain (usually less severe than the leg pain)

• Sensory symptoms in the lower leg (pins and needles, numbness)

So what do we know about management?

Most patients improve over time (within 6 – 12 weeks) with exercise, manual therapy, pain management and education.

Patients should limit

• Bed Rest

• Long periods of sitting/standing

• Unnecessary worry

If you’re concerned about your symptoms, come in and see us for a detailed assessment. We are trained in screening for more worrying symptoms and can put your mind at ease and tailor a treatment plan, or refer on for further testing if it’s warranted.

 If you have any questions or concerns about leg or back pain, contact us for further help.