Sciatica
Sciatic pain is one of the most disabling pain presentations that comes into the clinic. It has many causes and this cause needs to be determined so that the appropriate treatment and advice can be provided.
Sciatica is pain that originates from the sciatic nerve and its nerve roots L4-S3. Irritation of the nerve is usually due to compression somewhere along its pathway from the lower back, through to the buttock and down the back of the thigh, supplying the leg. People with sciatic pain typically will describe a shooting, burning sensation down their leg. This may be associated with pins and needles/numbness or tingling.
Your skilled osteopath will examine you and determine where the likely nerve compromise is and why it is being irritated in this region.
Your sciatica pain presentation is unique to you and as such your examination will be tailored as will your treatment and management plan.
Common reasons for sciatic pain:
The sciatic nerve and its nerve roots can be irritated by compression, inflammation and vascular causes.
Disc bulges (common)
Osteoarthritic changes in the spine affecting the space the nerves exit (leads to an increased likelihood of compression)
Muscular tension resulting in neural tension and irritation (less common)
Treatment options available:
Massage
Mobilisations/stretches
Ensure you read our informative blog on sciatica with scientific research to support - ‘Is it really sciatica?’ & ‘Myths & Facts of Low Back Pain’
