14/07/2025
SCIATICA: Causes, Symptoms, Examination & Physiotherapy Treatment
Prepared by: MD Manik Hossen (PT)
Senior Physiotherapy
BPT in Rajshahi University
PGT Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Medicine(UK)
Uposhohor Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Center, Rajshahi
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It usually affects only one side of the body.
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🔍 Causes of Sciatica:
Herniated (slipped) disc – most common cause
Lumbar spinal stenosis
Degenerative disc disease
Spondylolisthesis
Piriformis syndrome
Trauma or injury to the spine or pelvis
Pregnancy-related postural and hormonal changes
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⚠️ Common Symptoms:
Sharp or shooting pain in the lower back, buttock, and leg
Tingling, numbness, or burning sensation in the leg or foot
Muscle weakness in the affected leg
Pain worsens while sitting, bending, sneezing, or coughing
Electric-shock-like or burning pain down the leg
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🧪 Examination of Sciatica:
A physiotherapist or healthcare provider may perform:
Patient history & pain assessment
Posture and gait analysis
Straight Leg Raise (SLR) Test
Slump Test
Neurological assessment (reflexes, sensation, motor strength)
Palpation of lumbar spine, piriformis, and gluteal region
Functional assessment (difficulty in sitting, walking, bending)
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🏥 Physiotherapy Treatment for Sciatica:
1️⃣ Pain Relief Techniques:
Hot or cold therapy
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
Ultrasound therapy
2️⃣ Stretching Exercises:
Piriformis stretch
Hamstring stretch
Knee-to-chest stretch
3️⃣ Strengthening Exercises:
Core stability training
Pelvic tilt exercises
Glute bridges
4️⃣ Postural Training & Ergonomics:
Correct sitting, standing, and lifting techniques
Ergonomic adjustments for workstations and home activities
5️⃣ Manual Therapy Techniques:
Soft tissue mobilization for gluteal and lumbar muscles
Joint mobilization of the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joint
Neural Mobilization:
Sciatic nerve gliding exercises to improve nerve mobility and reduce irritation
