
13/07/2025
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks down each leg. It typically affects one side of the body.
Causes of Sciatica:
โข Herniated disc (most common)
โข Spinal stenosis
โข Degenerative disc disease
โข Spondylolisthesis
โข Piriformis syndrome
โข Trauma or injury
โข Pregnancy-related changes
Symptoms:
โข Sharp or shooting pain in the lower back, buttock, and leg
โข Tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the leg or foot
โข Pain worsens with sitting, coughing, sneezing, or bending
โข Burning or electric-shock-like pain
Physiotherapy Treatment for Sciatica:
1. Pain Relief Techniques:
โข Hot or cold packs
โข TENS therapy (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
โข Ultrasound therapy
2. Stretching Exercises:
โข Piriformis stretch
โข Hamstring stretch
โข Knee-to-chest stretch
3. Strengthening Exercises:
โข Core strengthening
โข Pelvic tilts
โข Glute bridges
4. Postural Training:
โข Correcting posture while sitting, standing, and lifting
โข Ergonomic advice for work and daily activities
5. Manual Therapy:
โข Soft tissue mobilization
โข Joint mobilization for lumbar spine and sacroiliac joint
6. Neural Mobilization:
โข Sciatic nerve glides to reduce neural tension