Are you experiencing sciatica pain, and wondering how best to treat it?
Sciatica pain can vary widely from person to person, however the qualified physios at North West Physiotherapy in Brisbane have seen firsthand just how debilitating the condition can be for some of our clients.
This type of pain can be anything from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or even an excruciating pain. Sometimes it may even feel like a jolt or electric shock.
In this blog we discuss:
- Typical sciatica symptoms,
- Causes of sciatica pain, and
- Sciatica treatments, including self-management strategies and pain relief options.
Learn more about sciatica pain below, or if you’re experiencing pain our qualified physios can develop a tailored treatment plan for you. Make a booking with a North West Physio team member here.
Common Causes of Sciatica Pain
Sciatica pain occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed, irritated or inflamed anywhere along its anatomical pathway.
As such there can be many causes, including:
- Repetitive bending, lifting or twisting movements,
- Poor muscular control around the lower back,
- Reduced core strength,
- Muscle tightness in the buttock region,
- Bony and disc abnormalities in the lower back, and
- Previous lower back injury.
Sciatica Symptoms
When it comes to sciatica, normally only one side of the body is affected.
You may feel the discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway, but it’s especially likely to follow a path from your low back to your buttock, and the back of your thigh and calf.
Typically, the symptoms of sciatica is characterised by:
- Pain that radiates from your lower back to your buttock and down the back of your leg,
- Numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot, and
- Increased pain when lifting, straining or coughing.
Prolonged sitting can aggravate symptoms.
Sciatica Pain Treatment
Typically, the physiotherapists at North West Physiotherapy will utilise a range of treatment options to relieve symptoms.
These can include:
- Manual therapy and spinal mobilisations,
- Soft tissue massage and trigger point therapy,
- Ultrasound and other electrical stimulation devices,
- Advice in relation to how to minimise pressure and irritation of the sciatic nerve, and
- A detailed exercise program targeting strength and range of movement.
Managing Sciatica Pain
Also, there are a number of preventative and management strategies that can be used for sciatica.
These include:
- Regular exercise including core strengthening,
- Maintaining good posture,
- Avoiding long periods of sitting,
- Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees,
- Being mindful of technique when lifting, and
- Self-massage, trigger ball or foam roller release of the buttocks.
Sciatica Pain Relief
Usually, over the counter pain relief and anti-inflammatories can assist in easing the symptoms of sciatica, however it is important to consult with your GP or pharmacist to ensure it is safe to take these medications.
Sciatica Pain
Is it time to do something about your sciatica pain?
Get in touch with the North West Physio team here for a tailored treatment plan.
North West Physiotherapy is your one-stop pain relief and healthy living practice in Brisbane. With six clinics across North Brisbane; Everton Park, Keperra, Eatons Hill, Nundah, Lutchwyche and Newmarket, our aim is to provide holistic healthcare solution to suit your specific lifestyle.
Our services include Physiotherapy, Sports Physio, Hydrotherapy, Pilates, Podiatry, Dry Needling, Massage, Womens Health, and Seniors Strength and Balance Classes. Please note that services vary across our clinics.
Contact your local clinic to book an appointment.