Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that runs along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down through the entire length of your leg. Sciatic pain can be debilitating and make day to day life extremely difficult.

Causes of Sciatica include;

•   sciatic nerve compression,

•   herniated disc,

•   spinal stenosis,

•   piriformis syndrome

•   pelvic/back injury
  

Symptoms of Sciatica:

• Shooting/burning/stabbing pain in lower back, bottom, back of legs into feet and toes

• Tingling sensation, pins and needles or numbness

• Weakness of your leg

How to ease the pain

Sciatica usually improves in 4 to 6 weeks but it can sometimes linger. To speed up your recovery:

See your physiotherapist.

Carry on with your normal activities as much as possible

Exercise gently as soon as you can – anything that gets you moving gently can help

Use heat on your back

Take pain relief as required

Put a small, firm cushion between your knees when sleeping on your side or several pillows/cushions under your knees when lying on your back.

Avoid

Sitting or lying down for long periods of time

Be aware if you have numbness you might not feel a burn or blister so check your skin regularly.

When to seek medical advice

See a GP if you need prescription pain relief or are worried you are not improving.

Seek medical advice immediately if you can’t move your foot normally or lose control of your bladder or bowels.

See your physiotherapist for advice, assessment and treatment.