Sciatica: A Real Pain In The Backside

Sciatica is more than just a pain in the backside – it is a complex condition that can cause discomfort ranging from mild irritation to excruciating pain. Essentially, it refers to any pain or discomfort that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the buttock, back of the legs, and into the feet, becomes inflamed. This means pain can be felt throughout the lower body, including the buttocks.

The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc, also known as a disc prolapse or a slipped disc. The spine is cushioned by rubber-like discs made of connective tissue, which help absorb shocks, hold vertebrae together, and allow for mobility. When a disc becomes damaged, the connective tissue can protrude through the disc’s wall, putting pressure on the adjacent sciatic nerve. This pressure can lead to discomfort or severe pain.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing sciatica, including age-related degeneration of intervertebral discs, heavy lifting or twisting of the back, a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight and sports injuries involving the lower back or legs.

The Role of Physiotherapy

At Cairnhill Physio, we take a comprehensive approach to assessing and treating sciatica. Our goal is to provide a tailored treatment plan that addresses the root cause of the pain and helps promote long-term relief. This typically involves a combination of manual therapy techniques, specific exercises, and ongoing rehabilitation programs.

Manual therapy techniques, such as spinal manipulation and mobilisation, can help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve mobility in the spine. These techniques are supported by evidence-based research, which has shown that they can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in individuals with sciatica.

In addition to manual therapy, we prescribe specific exercises designed to strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine and improve posture. These exercises are tailored to each individual’s needs and may include stretching, core stabilisation, and strengthening exercises.

Tips for Alleviating Sciatica Pain at Home

While physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing sciatica, there are also steps you can take at home to alleviate pain and discomfort. These may include:

Maintaining Good Posture

Poor posture can exacerbate sciatica symptoms, so sitting and standing with proper alignment is important.

Gentle Stretching

Stretching exercises can help relieve tension in the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve, reducing pain and improving flexibility.

Avoiding Activities That Exacerbate Symptoms

Certain activities, such as heavy lifting or prolonged sitting, can worsen sciatica symptoms. Avoid these activities whenever possible.

Cold Packs

Place a cold pack on the painful area for up to 20 minutes several times daily.

Hot Packs

After 2 to 3 days, apply heat to sore areas that hurt. Try using both warm and cold packs, one at a time for continuing pain.

Medications

Pain relief, such as ibuprofen, is sometimes helpful for sciatica. Use only as directed.

Sciatica can be a debilitating condition that affects individuals of all ages and lifestyles. With the right treatment approach, it is possible to manage pain and improve function. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in this process, providing tailored treatment plans that address the root cause of the pain and promote long-term relief. If you’re experiencing pain and symptoms of sciatica, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance at Cairnhill Physiotherapy. Our team of experts is here to help you get back to living life pain-free. In-clinic treatment combined with an ongoing recovery programme can stop sciatica from becoming too much of a pain in the backside. Contact us today to find out how we can help.

For further information about sciatica, you may find these resources helpful.

Understanding Sciatica:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2019). “Sciatica.”
The Role of Physiotherapy:
Hahne, A. J., Ford, J. J., McMeeken, J. M. (2011). “Conservative management of lumbar disc herniation with associated radiculopathy: A systematic review.”
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2016). “Sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy).”
Tips for Alleviating Sciatica Pain at Home:
Mayo Clinic. (2020). “Sciatica.”
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). (n.d.). “Sciatica.”