The Sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body. Sciatica is a specific nerve pain that only originates from the sciatic nerve. Pain, which is typically felt as a burning sensation or a shooting pain, originates in the lower back and radiates into the buttocks and down the leg.
What are the Symptoms of Sciatica?
- Lower back pain.
- Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting.
- Hip pain.
- Burning or tingling down the leg.
- Weakness, numbness, or a hard time moving the leg or foot.
- A constant pain on one side of the rear.
- A shooting pain that makes it hard to stand up.
Causes of Sciatica
There are a number of causes for sciatic pain but, most commonly it is caused by a tight or swollen muscle which places pressure on the nerve. Other causes can include; trauma or injury to the spine, bone spurs or other growths and narrowing of the spinal canal.
Further risk factors include:
- Age – those in their 30s and 40s are more at risk
- Profession – those who work with heavy lifting for long periods and those with a more sedentary lifestyle.
- Obesity – can put extra pressure on the spine
- Diabetes – can increase the risk of nerve damage
Treatment
The experienced therapists at Ormond Physio will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition. They will then develop a treatment plan with you. Treatment options may include hands on physiotherapy, prescribed exercises, remedial massage and Pilates.
If you can’t get in to see a therapist straight away, here are some stretches you can do to try help relieve your pain!
- Reclining pigeon pose: While lying on your back bring one leg up to a right angle cross that ankle over the opposite knee take hands behind knee and pull legs towards yourself. Hold the position for 30 seconds repeat with the opposite side.
- Knee to opposite shoulder: Lie on your back with legs out straight and toes pointing upward. Bend right leg and clasp hands around knee gently pull right leg to opposite shoulder and hold for 30 seconds.
- Seated spinal stretch: Sit on the ground with legs out straights and toes pointing upward, bending your right knee and place the foot flat on the floor then place it to the outside knee of the left leg, place left elbow to the outside of the right knee to help turn your body to the right. Hold for 30 seconds and switch sides.
Don’t put up with sciatic pain any longer, to book your appointment call our friendly reception team on 9578 6588 or click the button below!
