What is sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from your spine all the way down the back of your legs. Due to its long path, there are many structures along the way that can potentially pinch the nerve and lead to symptoms down the leg. The pain can be characterised as a sharp or shooting pain but may also be dull/achy.

What causes sciatica?

There are many reasons for sciatica. Some include: 

  • Lumbar disc herniation

  • Spinal stenosis (narrowing of your spinal canal) 

  • Piriformis syndrome or deep gluteal syndrome 

  • Trauma 

  • Prolonged sitting or sitting on your wallet 

  • Muscle spasms 

  • Pregnancy 

  • Spondylolisthesis

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

The most common symptoms of sciatica include:

  • Sharp/shooting pain that goes down the back of your leg (where it stops varies from person to person). You may also experience numbness/tingling.

  • Low back pain 

  • Buttock pain 

  • Thigh/lower leg pain

  • Weakness

  • Difficulty going to the bathroom**

  • Sexual dysfunction**

** Although these symptoms are rare, they can indicate something more serious such as cauda equina which should be treated urgently at a hospital.


How can I relieve my sciatic pain?

The duration of pain can vary from person to person.  We will try our best to speed up your recovery process and get you back to doing the activities you love.  At the Active Relief Centre, we place an emphasis on assessment and finding out why you are experiencing sciatica. This allows us to be more specific with your treatment/rehab and provide you with rehabilitation exercises specific to your case. Contact one of our clinics today and make us a part of your road to recovery.