
22/09/2025
As a Physiotherapist I often come across patients suffering from sciatica - a condition that can severely impact mobility and quality of life. The mnemonic "HNP PRESS" is a simple yet powerful way to recall the common causes:
H - Herniated disc (most common)
N - Narrowing of spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
P - Piriformis syndrome (muscle compression)
P - Pelvic tumors (mass effect)
R - Radiculopathy (nerve root compression)
E - Epidural abscess or hematoma (infection/trauma)
S - Spondylolisthesis (vertebra slip)
S - Sacral dysfunction (SI joint/pelvic misalignment)