Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It's most commonly caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome compressing or irritating the nerve. Less commonly, it may result from trauma, spondylolisthesis, or in rare cases, tumours or infection.

While general back pain is typically localised to the lower back, sciatica is characterised by pain that travels below the knee, often into the foot. It may include neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. This distinction is important because the underlying cause and most effective treatment approach may differ significantly.

You should seek urgent medical care if you experience loss of bowel or bladder control, severe or progressive weakness in the leg, or numbness in the saddle area. These symptoms may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition requiring emergency intervention. Sudden onset after significant trauma also warrants immediate assessment.

Chiropractic care may help many people with sciatica by addressing mechanical dysfunction in the lumbar spine, sacroiliac joints, and surrounding tissues. Treatment may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue techniques, neural mobilisation, and rehabilitation exercises. However, individual results vary, and appropriate referral for imaging or specialist care is made when indicated.

Acute episodes of sciatica often improve within 4–6 weeks with conservative management. However, the timeline varies considerably depending on the underlying cause, severity, and individual factors. Some people experience recurrent episodes, while others may develop chronic symptoms. Early assessment and appropriate management can help optimise recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.