The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body, and is made up of five nerve roots that exit the lower spinal column and merge to form the sciatic nerve. The nerve then travels through the pelvis and down the back of the thigh, eventually branching off into smaller nerves that supply the lower leg and foot.
It can be caused by a variety of factors, including disc bulge or protrusion, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, Periformis syndrome. The risk factors for sciatica include age, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and occupation.
Sciatica is a condition that occurs when there is irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. It is characterised by pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the glutes and legs.
Physiotherapy management for sciatica typically involves a combination of exercises to improve strength, flexibility, advice on initial activity modification as well as manual therapy techniques to help reduce pain, irritation and improve joint mobility in the affected area. The specific physiotherapy management will depend on the underlying cause of the sciatica. Physiotherapy should focus on muscle and nerve stretching and strengthening exercises to improve spinal stability such as core and hip stability exercises.
If you are suffering from Sciatica, book in a consultation with us today to assist you with managing the condition so you can keep participating in the things you love.
TPC team
