Sciatica Explained: Causes, Symptoms and Osteopathic Treatment

Sciatica is one of the most common complaints we treat — and one of the most misunderstood. It isn't a condition in itself, but a symptom caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, running from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg.

 What Does Sciatica Feel Like?
Sharp, shooting, or burning pain down the back of one leg; numbness or tingling in the leg or foot; lower back pain that radiates outward; pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or twisting.

 Common Causes
Disc bulges, tightness in the piriformis muscle deep in the buttock, joint dysfunction in the lower back, or prolonged poor posture from extended sitting.

 How Osteopathy Can Help
Treatment begins with a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause, then may include soft tissue massage to release compressing muscles, joint articulation to improve lower back and pelvis mobility, targeted stretching, and exercise prescription to prevent recurrence.

 Managing Sciatica at Home
Gentle movement is generally more helpful than complete rest. Avoid prolonged sitting, try gentle walking if tolerable, and heat can provide temporary relief.

If you're experiencing shooting leg pain, numbness, or weakness that isn't improving, get assessed sooner rather than later — early treatment leads to faster, more lasting results.

Book online at nexusosteo.com.au to get to the root cause of your pain.