What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica isn’t a diagnosis on its own — it’s a pattern of symptoms caused by pressure or irritation of the sciatic nerve.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp or burning pain down the back of the leg

• Pain in the buttock or hip

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot

• Weakness in the leg or foot

• Symptoms worse with sitting or bending

These symptoms can make everyday activities such as sitting, walking or climbing stairs difficult.

Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica isn’t caused by a single issue. Some common contributors include:

• Disc bulges or herniations that press on the nerve

• Nerve root irritation from inflammation

• Piriformis syndrome (nerve entrapment by muscle)

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the nerve channels)

• Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)

• Biomechanical issues affecting movement patterns

Understanding the cause drives the treatment plan, not just the symptom.

How Physiotherapy Helps Sciatica

Physiotherapy focuses on:

• Reducing nerve irritation

• Improving mobility and strength

• Restoring normal movement patterns

• Educating you on safe movement and flares

Comprehensive Assessment

Your therapist will assess:

• Pain patterns and behaviour

• Spinal and hip mobility

• Nerve mobility tests

• Strength and control of the core and lower limb

• Daily activity and movement patterns

This helps identify the root issues and rule out serious pathology.

Individualised Rehabilitation Programme

Treatment often includes:

• Nerve gliding exercises

• Manual therapy to reduce tension

• Core and hip stabilisation exercises

• Movement retraining

• Posture and pain-management strategies

The programme is tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle.

Activity Management & Education

Rather than resting completely, you’ll learn:

• How to move without aggravating symptoms

• How to gradually increase tolerance

• When to modify activity safely

• How to prevent flare-ups in future

How Long Does Sciatica Take to Improve?

Recovery varies, but most people notice improvement within 4–8 weeks with guided physiotherapy. Longer symptoms may take more time, but outcomes are typically excellent with a structured approach.

When to Seek Physiotherapy

You should consider booking an assessment if:

• Pain radiates below your knee

• Legs feel weak or numb

• You’ve had symptoms for >2–3 weeks

• Pain limits daily activities

Seek urgent medical advice if you have:

• Cauda equina symptoms (saddle numbness, bladder/bowel changes)

• Progressive weakness

• Severe pain after trauma