Sciatica Explained: Symptoms, Causes and When to Get Help

"Sciatica" describes pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, which is why a proper assessment matters.

Common symptoms

• Pain in the buttock or leg, often on one side
• Sharp, burning or shooting sensations
• Tingling, pins and needles or numbness in the leg or foot
• Pain that is worse with sitting, coughing or sneezing
• Sometimes lower back pain as well

What can cause it?

• Irritation or pressure on a nerve root in the lower back, for example from a disc problem
• Narrowing of the spaces where nerves leave the spine
• Tight muscles in the buttock that irritate the nerve
• Less commonly, other causes that a doctor needs to investigate

What can you do at home?

• Stay as active as comfortable. Rest for long periods often makes things worse.
• Try gentle walking and changing position regularly.
• Heat or cold packs can feel soothing for some people.
• Speak to a pharmacist about pain relief if needed.

How a chiropractor can assess sciatica

Your chiropractor will ask about where and when your symptoms occur, test your movement, strength and reflexes, and check whether chiropractic care is suitable or whether you should be referred. If appropriate, care may include joint mobilisation, soft tissue work and tailored exercises. Many cases improve over weeks, and outcomes vary.

Sciatica assessment in Chelmsford, from December

Read more about sciatica care at Ultra Wellness or our back pain page, then join the waitlist to see Michelle from December.