Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica isn't a condition itself — it's a symptom. It happens when something presses on the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body. That pressure can come from a disc problem, spinal narrowing, or muscle tightness. The result is pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that follows the nerve's path down your leg.
At Happy Life Physiotherapy, we find out exactly what's causing your sciatica and treat the root cause — not just the symptoms.
Common Causes
A disc pressing on the nerve root is one of the most common causes of sciatica.
A tight piriformis muscle in the buttock can irritate the sciatic nerve.
Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves.
A vertebra slipping out of position can irritate nerves.
How Physiotherapy Helps Sciatica
- Nerve mobilization — gentle techniques to improve nerve glide and reduce irritation
- Core strengthening — building support around your spine to reduce pressure on nerves
- Posture correction — relieving unnecessary stress on your lower back
- Manual therapy — releasing tight muscles that may be contributing to nerve compression
- Education & ergonomics — helping you understand positions and movements that aggravate or relieve your symptoms
What You Can Do
- Avoid prolonged sitting — it increases pressure on the sciatic nerve
- Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees
- Gentle walking can help — but stop if it makes pain worse
- Apply heat to relax tight muscles, ice to reduce inflammation
Sciatica responds very well to physiotherapy. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll find relief.