Sciatica

Injuries > Lower Back > Sciatica

(Also known as Sciatic Pain, Pinched Sciatic Nerve, Acute Nerve Root Compression)

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is the term given to symptoms experienced from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve (figure 1). Symptoms usually include one-sided low back pain which radiates into the buttock and / or leg and sometimes includes muscle spasm, pins and needles, numbness or weakness. Although symptoms typically affect only one side of the body, occasionally both sides may be affected.

Whilst sciatica is a common complaint, the term itself is often misunderstood. It is important to realize that sciatica is not a diagnosis, but rather a description of symptoms. There are a number of conditions which can cause compression or irritation to the sciatic nerve resulting in sciatica. This is important to understand as treatment for each of these conditions differs.

Causes of sciatica

The most common cause of sciatica is a lumbar disc bulge. In the older patient, sciatica may be associated with bony compression of the nerve root caused by spinal degeneration or spinal canal stenosis.

Conditions which may cause sciatica include:

Other less common conditions which may also cause sciatica include:

tumors
bony growths
infections

Diagnosis of sciatica

A thorough subjective and objective examination from a physiotherapist is usually sufficient to diagnose sciatica and the underlying cause. Investigations such as an X-ray, MRI or CT scan may be required to confirm diagnosis.

Treatment for sciatica

Treatment for sciatica varies greatly depending on the cause. Accurate diagnosis from a physiotherapist or doctor is therefore required to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Physiotherapy products for sciatica

Some of the most commonly recommended products by physiotherapists to hasten healing and speed recovery in patients with this condition include:

To purchase a physiotherapy product for sciatica, click on one of the above links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.

Find a Physio for sciatica

Find a physiotherapist in your local area who can diagnose and treat the cause of sciatica.

Lower Back Exercises

View lower back flexibility exercises.

View lower back strengthening exercises.

View basic Pilates exercises designed to improve your posture and core stability.

More Information

View detailed information about Back Braces.

View information on improving your ergonomic desk and computer setup.

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