What is the most effective treatment for sciatica?

Before diving into the best treatment options for sciatica, it’s important to first understand what it is. This blog will provide comprehensive information on sciatica, including everything you need to know on how to effectively manage and alleviate the condition. 

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a common condition that affects many individuals, and yet surprisingly, there are still many people who are unfamiliar with what sciatica means. Simply put, sciatica refers to the pain, tingling or numbness that occurs in the lower back, hips, legs, and even feet, typically on one side of the body. This pain is caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in our body. While it is relatively common and not often a serious condition, it can certainly be debilitating and limit our ability to move and carry out simple daily tasks. If you suspect that you have sciatica, speak to your physiotherapist to determine what methods of treatment may work best for you. 

What are the types of Sciatica?

For instance, one type of Sciatica known as lumbar radiculopathy stems from compression of nerves in the lumbar spine. On the other hand, non-spinal Sciatica occurs outside the vertebral column, resulting from several causes such as trauma, piriformis syndrome, and neural tension of the sciatic nerve.  Additionally, there is neuropathic Sciatica where pain arises from nerve damage or injury. 

What are the common symptoms of Sciatica?

Sciatica symptoms can vary in intensity, location and may include: 

• Radiating Pain: Pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and radiates down the leg is the hallmark of sciatica. The pain and tingling can also radiate into the foot and ankle. The pain can range from mild to severe and is often described as sharp, tingling, burning, or shooting.

• Numbness or Tingling: Many people with sciatica experience numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the leg or foot.

• Muscle Weakness: In more severe cases, sciatica can cause muscle weakness in the affected leg, making it difficult to walk or stand.

• Worsening Pain with Movement: Activities such as sitting for long periods, bending, or lifting can aggravate sciatica pain.

What are the causes of Sciatica?

Sciatica is often a debilitating condition that can cause excruciating pain in the lower back and leg. Although it is commonly thought to be a single condition, sciatica is a symptom of several different underlying musculo-skeletal conditions. These conditions are as follows: 

• Herniated discs: One of the most common causes, a herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer, pressing on the sciatic nerve.

• Degenerative disc disease: As the discs between the vertebrae wear down with age, they can irritate the sciatic nerve.

• Spinal stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.

• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can irritate the sciatic nerve if it compressed, spasms, shortens or becomes tight, causing sciatica-like symptoms.

• Lifestyle factors such as poor posture, overuse injuries, muscle imbalances due to an inactive lifestyle, and carrying excess weight can also increase a person’s risk of developing sciatica.

How can Physiotherapy help with Sciatica?

Physiotherapy can be an effective way to manage the cause & symptoms of sciatica. Our Physiotherapists at Fleetwood Physio Clinic use various techniques such as customized exercise therapy, massage, spinal/joint mobilization, laser, manual therapy and spinal traction decompression to improve mobility, strength and reduce pain. By working with a highly experienced physiotherapist, patients can regain their quality of life and prevent the need for invasive treatments such as steroid injections, medication or surgery. If you or someone you know is struggling with sciatica, consider seeking out a qualified physiotherapist to help effectively manage the condition. 

Why Choose Surrey 152st (Fleetwood) Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic in Surrey for your Sciatica treatment?

Surrey 152st (Fleetwood) Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic in Surrey has highly skilled and experienced Physiotherapists for the best treatment of Sciatica. We offer direct billing to all the private insurance companies. Also, once the claim is approved, we directly bill the ICBC and Work Safe BC (WSBC/WCB) means no out of pocket expenses to you. 

We have physiotherapists available who speak Hindi, Punjabi, and English our Fleetwood Physio Clinic, and our clinic also provides free parking. Schedule your appointment today using our 24/7 online booking system or simply give us a call. 

FAQs

• Can a Physio do anything for Sciatica?

Yes, a physiotherapist can effectively treat sciatica by using techniques like spinal mobilization, trigger point muscle release, pelvis alignment, laser therapy, spinal traction decompression, and posture correction to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Our physiotherapists in Surrey Fleetwood also provide education and customized exercises to correct muscle imbalances and prevent future flare-ups. 

• Can Physiotherapy Prevent Sciatica from Returning?

Yes, physiotherapy can help prevent the recurrence of sciatica by teaching you exercises to strengthen your core and improve your posture, reducing the risk of future nerve compression. 

• What Types of Exercises Are Used in Physiotherapy for Sciatica?

Common exercises include gentle stretches for the hamstrings and lower back, core strengthening exercises, and functional conditioning. Your physiotherapist will provide you with the best exercises tailored to your specific condition and tolerance levels. 

About Nishant Mahajan Reg. P.T 

Nishant Mahajan is a registered physiotherapist with the Allied Physiotherapy Health Group, bringing extensive experience from hospitals and clinics in both India and Canada. He specializes in advanced techniques like IMS/Dry Needling, Spinal Decompression Therapy, and Shockwave Therapy to help patients reach their functional goals. Nishant is dedicated to empowering patients with the knowledge to manage their injuries and strives to deliver patient-focused care that promotes optimal recovery and long-term well-being.