Sciatica is a condition characterised by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body running from the lower back all the way down the back of each leg.

When the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected leg.

Sciatica is often caused by a slipped disc or also known as a prolapsed or herniated disc. However there are also several other causes of sciatica, including spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and piriformis syndrome. 

These conditions can either compress or irritate the sciatic nerve, leading to the symptoms of sciatica.

Symptoms typically include pain that radiates from the lower back through the hip/buttocks and down the back of the leg, as well as numbness, tingling, and weakness. The pain can be sharp, shooting, or burning, and it can be aggravated by sitting, standing, or walking for prolonged periods.

Sciatica typically only affects one side of the body. 

During the initial assessment, a thorough physical examination will be performed to identify the source of sciatica, and whether it is caused by spinal, non-spinal or iatrogenic conditions.

From there, our physiotherapists will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and situation.

Doing regular exercise is essential for a proper recovery. The main goals of doing targeted exercises for sciatica are improving mobility and nerve function, preventing recurring pain and providing rehabilitation for long term healing. 

The type and intensity of prescribed exercises will depend on the length of time the patient has had symptoms, as well as the severity of the pain. Besides doing exercise, your physio will provide you with manual therapy treatments, such as soft tissue massages, joint mobilization and education on self management techniques to help you practice good posture and sitting and standing positions.

In addition, our physiotherapists may use other modalities such as ultrasound, heat or ice therapy, and electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Our physiotherapists are here to help! Contact any of our clinics today to book your appointment. You may also book your appointment online through the link below:

For more information, contact us appt@sportsandspinal.hk or +852 2530 0073.