Sciatica
Sciatica is pain, numbness or tingling that runs down the path of the sciatic nerve, usually triggered by pressure on a nerve root in the lower back. Our physiotherapists find the underlying cause and build a hands-on, exercise-based plan to ease your symptoms in the comfort of your own home.
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body. It's formed from nerve roots exiting the lower lumbar spine and sacrum, then travels from the low back through the buttock and down the back of the thigh to the calf, foot and toes. Sciatica isn't a diagnosis in itself — like "headache," it's a description of where the pain is felt, caused by irritation or compression somewhere along that nerve.
Sciatic pain can range from a mild, intermittent ache to a severe pain that makes walking, bending or even sitting difficult. It's a common problem — an estimated 40% of people will experience sciatica at some point, most often between the ages of 40 and 50, though it can happen at any age.
What causes sciatica
Sciatica is usually the result of something pressing on or irritating the sciatic nerve or one of its nerve roots. Common causes include:
Disc bulge or herniation
The most common cause in people over 40. The soft centre of a spinal disc shifts or escapes through the outer cartilage, irritating a nearby nerve root.
Spinal stenosis
A narrowing of the space around the spinal cord and nerve roots, which can put direct pressure on the nerve as it exits the spine.
Piriformis syndrome
A tight or spasming piriformis muscle deep in the buttock can compress the sciatic nerve as it passes underneath or through it.
Muscle strain and pregnancy
Postural changes, joint laxity and muscle strain can all irritate the sciatic nerve, particularly later in pregnancy or after a sudden load through the spine.
Who is at risk
Certain factors make sciatica more likely to develop, including:
Symptoms of sciatica
What it feels like
- Sharp, shooting or burning pain in the leg
- Numbness or pins and needles in the leg or foot
- Weakness when moving the leg, foot or toes
- Pain that's worse sitting or standing, easier walking or lying down
- Pain aggravated by coughing or sneezing
Where it's felt
- Buttock
- Back of the thigh
- Back and outside of the calf
- Foot and toes
Symptoms are usually felt in one leg, but can occasionally occur in both.
When to seek urgent care
In rare cases, sciatica-type symptoms can signal cauda equina syndrome — a loss of bowel or bladder control, or progressive weakness or numbness in both legs. This is a medical emergency. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor or go to your nearest emergency department straight away.
How we treat sciatica
Most people with sciatica improve within a few weeks to months with the right non-surgical care. Our physiotherapists start by identifying the mechanical cause behind your symptoms, then focus on calming the irritated nerve and reducing inflammation using nerve mobilisation techniques, gentle stretching and postural correction, while helping you modify aggravating activities such as prolonged sitting, bending or heavy lifting.
Once your symptoms have settled, we move on to a targeted exercise program to restore movement and strength through your spine and legs, and reduce the chance of your sciatica coming back.
Questions people ask us
Do I need a referral?
Private patients and NDIS participants don't need one. DVA, Medicare or work-injury clients need a GP referral to be covered — we bulk bill DVA, WorkCover and CTP clients.
Which suburbs do you visit?
We cover a large part of North Brisbane and Moreton Bay. Call 1300 895 169 and we'll tell you straight away if we can reach you.
How do I make an appointment?
Use the contact form on our website and a team member will call within 24 hours, or call us directly to book a session.
What are the payment methods?
Cash and card are accepted on the day. NDIS, WorkCover and DVA clients are invoiced directly through their plan manager or case officer.
What equipment do you have?
Our team carries all the equipment needed to deliver a comprehensive service in the comfort of your own home.
What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing you can move freely in.
What happens during a consultation?
A comprehensive assessment and treatment during the session, which may include massage, joint mobilisation and exercise prescription, followed by a detailed home exercise program.
When do I pay?
Either before or after your consultation, whichever is easier for you.
Can I use my private health fund card and just pay the gap?
No — private health rebates need to be claimed online after your invoice is paid. We don't have a health-fund terminal for on-the-spot gap payments.