Sciatica: what is it and can physio help?
Sciatica is pain, tingling or numbness that travels from the lower back or buttock down the back of the leg, usually on one side. A physiotherapist can often help by finding what is irritating the nerve and guiding movement and exercise to calm it down.
What is going on
The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. When something nearby irritates it, such as a bulging disc, a tight muscle or a narrowed space where the nerve exits the spine, the pain can spread along its path.
How it can feel
- A sharp, burning or electric pain in the buttock or leg
- Tingling, pins and needles or numbness in the leg or foot
- Pain that is worse with sitting, coughing or bending
- Weakness in the leg or foot in some cases
How physiotherapy may help
A physiotherapist will test your movement, strength, reflexes and sensation to understand which structures are involved. Treatment often combines positions and movements that ease nerve irritation, hands-on techniques, and a gradual return to activity. Most people do not need complete rest.
Seek urgent medical care or go to the emergency department if you have numbness in the groin or inner thighs, loss of bladder or bowel control, sudden severe weakness in a leg, fever with back pain, or pain after a fall or car crash.
Our physiotherapy team can assess sciatica symptoms and explain your options clearly.
Related: should I see a physiotherapist or a chiropractor for low back pain or sciatica?, how many physiotherapy sessions will I need? and what should I expect at my first physiotherapy appointment?
Dealing with leg pain from your back? Book an assessment.
Questions? Call 613-742-1230 or email info@pstottawa.ca. Find us at 5-5303 Canotek Rd, Ottawa.