Sciatica explained
Sciatica is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Learn what is irritating the nerve, how long it usually takes to settle, and the warning signs you should never ignore.
B.Chiro.Sc, M.Chiro (Macquarie University), AHPRA registered chiropractor
Sciatica describes pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the back of the leg, following the path of the sciatic nerve. It can feel like a deep ache, a burning line, or electric shocks, and is sometimes accompanied by pins and needles.
The nerve is usually being irritated by a bulging disc, a narrowed joint space, or a tight piriformis muscle in the buttock. Finding which one is the first step.
What to expect
Most cases of sciatica improve substantially within six to twelve weeks with conservative care. Our approach is to keep you moving, reduce the irritation around the nerve with targeted treatment, and give you specific exercises that encourage the disc or joint to settle.
If your symptoms are not improving after a reasonable trial of care, or if the examination suggests something that needs imaging, Alicia will refer you to your GP or a specialist. We would rather refer early than keep treating something that needs a different approach.
See a doctor, not a chiropractor, if you have
- Numbness in the saddle area, or changes to bladder or bowel control. This is an emergency: go to hospital now.
- Weakness in the foot or leg that is getting worse.
- Sciatica on both sides at once.
- Severe pain that does not change with position and is worse at night.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. It does not replace an assessment by a registered health practitioner.