Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, tingling, numbness or weakness that travels from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. It occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed, often as a result of changes in the lower back. Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to more severe pain that affects walking, sitting and everyday activities.

At The Form Practice, our experienced multidisciplinary team will carry out a thorough assessment to determine whether your symptoms are consistent with sciatica or another condition affecting your back or legs. We will then recommend a personalised treatment plan to help reduce pain, improve mobility and support your recovery.

Common Causes

Sciatica may be caused by:

  • A bulging or herniated disc
  • Degenerative changes in the spine
  • Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
  • Muscle tension or irritation affecting the sciatic nerve
  • Inflammation around the nerve
  • Pregnancy-related changes
  • Less commonly, injury or trauma

Common Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain travelling from the lower back into the buttock and leg
  • Tingling or pins and needles
  • Numbness in the leg or foot
  • Weakness in the leg or foot
  • Pain that worsens when sitting for prolonged periods
  • Sharp, burning or shooting pain
  • Difficulty walking comfortably

How We Can Help

A detailed assessment is essential to identify the likely cause of your symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment. Our aim is to reduce pain, improve mobility, support nerve recovery where appropriate and help you return to your normal activities with confidence.

How We May Help

Depending on your assessment and individual needs, treatment may include:

  • Osteopathy
  • Sports Therapy
  • Sports Massage
  • Pilates
  • PelviPower
  • K-Laser
  • INDIBA
  • Individual rehabilitation exercises and self-management advice

Your treatment plan will always be tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle and recovery goals.

When Should You Seek Urgent Medical Advice?

Although many cases of sciatica improve with appropriate treatment, you should seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Numbness around the saddle or groin area
  • Significant or worsening weakness in one or both legs
  • Severe symptoms following a major injury
  • Rapidly worsening neurological symptoms

These symptoms require immediate medical assessment.

Why Choose The Form Practice?

  • Experienced multidisciplinary team
  • Thorough assessment and personalised treatment plans
  • Hands-on care combined with rehabilitation
  • Advanced therapy technology where appropriate
  • Peaceful rural clinic with free parking

Related Conditions

You may also find these pages helpful:

  • Back Pain
  • Hip Pain
  • Sports Injuries
  • Arthritis

Book an Appointment

If you’re experiencing pain, tingling or numbness travelling into your leg, our experienced team can assess your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment to help you recover and get back to doing the things you enjoy.