SCIATICA
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled clinicians can help manage trapped nerves
We have every non-surgical option for treating sciatica and other types trapped nerves in the back and leg.
THE ANATOMY
Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body.
The sciatic nerve originates from the lower lumbar and sacral spine, travels through the pelvis and buttock, and runs down the back of the leg to the foot. When the nerve becomes irritated, inflamed, or compressed, symptoms can travel along its pathway, causing pain, pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in the leg.
Sciatica is a nerve-related condition, not simply a muscle problem, and requires accurate assessment to identify the underlying cause.
WHAT CAUSES SCIATICA?
1: Disc-Related Compression
Disc bulges, disc herniations, or disc degeneration in the lower back can place pressure on a nerve root that contributes to the sciatic nerve. This often results in sharp, shooting pain down one leg, sometimes accompanied by numbness or weakness.
2. Spinal Joint & Degenerative Changes
Facet joint irritation, spinal stenosis, or arthritic changes can narrow the spaces where nerves exit the spine, leading to nerve compression and sciatic symptoms.
3. Muscle & Pelvic Contributors
Tight or dysfunctional muscles — such as the piriformis — pelvic imbalances, or altered hip mechanics can irritate the sciatic nerve outside the spine. This is often referred to as non-discogenic or peripheral sciatica.
OUR APPROACH TO SCIATICA
Sciatica responds best to a targeted, multidisciplinary approach that addresses both nerve irritation and contributing mechanical factors:
Physiotherapy focuses on nerve mobility, pain reduction, strength, and functional rehabilitation
Chiropractic care aims to restore spinal joint movement, reduce nerve compression, and improve biomechanics
Massage therapy helps relieve muscle tension and soft tissue contributors around the lower back, hips, and gluteal region
Acupuncture may assist with pain relief, inflammation reduction, and nervous system regulation
Clinical Pilates improves core control, spinal stability, and movement efficiency
Back Care Classes provide education on posture, lifting mechanics, and strategies to reduce flare-ups
This collaborative approach ensures both short-term symptom relief and long-term recovery.
BOOK AN ASSESSMENT & TREATMENT OR YOUR SCIATICA NOW AT SARISBURY OR WEST END
MYTHBUSTING: SCIATICA
Sciatica is often misunderstood. Common myths include:
“Sciatica is a diagnosis” — it is a symptom, not the underlying cause
“Surgery is always required” — most cases improve with conservative care
“I should avoid movement” — guided movement is usually essential for recovery
“Leg pain means permanent nerve damage” — nerve irritation is often reversible
WHY WATT HEALTH?
Our team takes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to sciatica management. We perform a detailed assessment to identify whether your symptoms are disc-related, joint-related, muscular, or biomechanical in origin. Treatment is tailored to your presentation and may include hands-on therapy, nerve mobilisation techniques, targeted rehabilitation exercises, postural advice, and education to prevent recurrence.
Rather than simply treating symptoms, we aim to reduce nerve irritation, restore movement, and address the underlying cause of your sciatica, helping you return safely to daily activities, work, and exercise with confidence.
