Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the buttock and into each leg. This pain typically occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed, irritated, or injured. Understanding sciatica along with the main causes and symptoms of sciatica can support you in reducing your pain.
Understanding sciatica starts with understanding the main causes. The main causes of sciatica can be a herniated disk, injury, or a pinched nerve. It can also happen during pregnancy as this can put pressure on the sciatic nerve. Sciatica can manifest in a variety of symptoms, often affecting one side of the body. Common symptoms include:
Radiating pain
Numbness and tingling
Muscle Weakness
Reduced Mobility
The impact of sciatica can affect people in their everyday lives both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to manage and alleviate sciatica symptoms. A few effective methods include physiotherapy since physiotherapy uses manual therapy which can support relief from sciatic pain. Physiotherapists can also educate and provide different exercises for their clients. Hot and cold therapy has been said to be another effective method of treatment by reducing inflammation and pain. Stretching exercises may provide some relief however, it is always recommended to stretch with a trained professional.
Sciatica can be a pain, literally. We understand that this can be frustrating to deal with. If you feel like you need support reach out to one of our clinics. We can book you in for physiotherapy, massage, pilates or kinesiology.