Sciatica is a debilitating condition characterised by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. It starts from the lower back and extends 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. At Prohealth Sports and Spinal Hong Kong, many of our clients with sciatica experience sciatic nerve pain in different ways. The intensity and frequency range from person to person.

Some people will experience sharp, acute pains that feel like electric shocks down the legs, whilst other clients may feel more dull pain, numbness and tingling sensations. It is not uncommon to experience muscle weakness. If you’re experiencing this, please consult your physiotherapist for an assessment.

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. 

Our physiotherapists at Prohealth Sports and Spinal have extensive experience in assessing and diagnosing sciatica. 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. Through a thorough physical examination and assessment, we aim to identify the source and underlying causes of your sciatica.

Based on the assessment findings, our physiotherapists will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and situation. We take into consideration factors such as the duration and severity of your symptoms, your lifestyle and activity levels, and any previous treatments or interventions you may have undergone.

Our specialized physiotherapy treatments aim to alleviate pain, promote healing, and restore optimal function. Exercise is a key component of the treatment plan, focusing on improving mobility, nerve function, and long-term rehabilitation. Your physiotherapist will guide you through targeted exercises that may include stretching, strengthening, and stability exercises. These exercises are designed to address muscle imbalances, correct posture, and improve the overall health of your spine.

In addition to exercise, our skilled physiotherapists may utilize manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massages, joint mobilization, and spinal manipulation to provide immediate pain relief and improve joint and muscle function. These hands-on techniques help to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and enhance the body’s natural healing processes.

We also provide education on self-management techniques, including proper sitting and standing positions, ergonomics, and posture correction. Your physiotherapist will work closely with you to identify and modify any activities or habits that may contribute to your sciatica symptoms.

To further aid in pain reduction and inflammation management, we may incorporate modalities such as ultrasound, heat or ice therapy, and electrical stimulation as part of your personalized treatment plan. These modalities can help to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and enhance the effectiveness of the overall treatment.

At Prohealth Sports and Spinal Physiotherapy Centres, we understand that each individual’s experience with sciatica is unique. Our approach to care is centered around providing personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs and goals. We prioritize open communication, active patient involvement, and ongoing reassessment to ensure that your treatment is effective and tailored to your progress.

Don’t let sciatica limit your daily activities and quality of life. Our dedicated physiotherapists are here to help you recover and regain your mobility.

Contact our clinics today to book your appointment or for more information.

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