Sciatica

Sciatica is the term used to describe the symptoms of leg pain, sometimes accompanied by tingling, numbness and/or weakness that arise from disruption or irritation of the sciatic nerve. The main cause of sciatica Sciatica occurs when the Sciatic nerve is compressed at or near its origin. Compression of the nerve may occur for several reasons, including disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis or spinal stenosis. Sciatica-like symptoms may also occur due to muscle tightness in the buttock region, a condition known as Piriformis Syndrome.

Characteristics/Clinical presentation of Sciatica

• Constant sharp pain in one side of the leg or buttock Leg pain that is described as tingling, burning (different than dull ace pain) Pain that is worsening with prolong sitting Weakness, numbness or even difficulty with moving leg, foot, or toes Pain that radiates down the leg and possibly into the foot and toes

How do I know what caused my Sciatica?

A comprehensive assessment performed by our registered physiotherapist in York-med physiotherapy is the best way to diagnose the cause of your sciatica.

Physiotherapy management for Sciatica

At York-med physiotherapy, our registered physiotherapists and chiropractors determine the best course of action about your Sciatica. The course of action will depend on your individualized clinical diagnosis and the true cause of your sciatica. Usually, sciatica treatment will involve de-sensitizing the nerve and/or nerve roots through manual therapy and strengthening supporting structures while stretching any tight structures.