Help For Sciatica in Bendigo
Our Physiotherapists regularly treat sciatica and sciatic nerve pain sufferers, often leading to fantastic results.
Sciatica is described as pain that begins in the lower back or buttock and moves into one or both legs. Sciatic pain can vary in its intensity and frequency, but typically it will have an element of sharp, jabbing or “electric shock” pains that extend into the legs. Sciatica is also frequently linked to burning, numbness and tingling sensations. Muscle weakness may also be an additional symptom of sciatica.
Causes of Sciatica
The sciatic nerve is a major nerve that derives from the lower lumbar spine and goes through the buttock into the leg as far as the back of the knee.
Pressure to the Sciatic nerve can be brought on by a number of causes including:
- Piriformis syndrome (tightness of the piriformis muscle in the buttock putting pressure on the sciatic nerve)
- Spinal and vertebral dysfunction
- Intervertebral Disc injuries
- Vertebral joint dysfunction
- Posture issues
- Lifestyle/movement choices such as high heels, lengthy periods of sitting, poor mattress, uncontrolled lifting technique and poor bending habits
Diagnosing Sciatica
Because there are numerous issues that can cause sciatica, our physios will complete a detailed assessment to work out what is likely to be the major contributing factor to your symptoms. This will include gathering injury history details and completing a physical examination. The physical examination may include posture and spinal assessment, hip joint assessment and neurological assessment, testing sensation, power, reflexes and neural mobility.
Further investigations such as X-Rays, Ultra-Sound or MRI imaging may be recommended also.
New Patient Special Offer
$20 Off your Initial Physio Assessment
New Patient Special Offer
$20 Off your Initial Physio Assessment
Treatment for Sciatica
Treatment for sciatica can include massage, dry needling, joint mobilisation, cupping and stretches. Home exercises including stretches, strengthening and suitable exercise options will be recommended also. A major component of effective management for sciatica includes addressing the contributing factors. This means that lifestyle choices and habits that may contribute to sciatica may be identified, with recommendations for modifications or alterations made.