The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and is formed from the union of 5 nerve roots from the lower spine passing through your buttock and down to your foot. Sciatica is a general term that is used to describe the pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated, compressed or inflamed. The causes of sciatica can include injury or illness, such as a “slipped disc”, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or other back injuries.

If you are suffering from sciatica, you may feel a stabbing, shooting or burning pain, or a tingling sensation, like pins and needles in your bottom, the back of your legs, or your feet and toes. These symptoms may feel worse when moving, coughing or sneezing. You may also experience some back pain.

The National Institute for Health and Care guidelines explicitly recognise the role of manual therapy in the treatment of low back pain and sciatica:

“Consider manual therapy (spinal manipulation, mobilisation or soft tissue techniques such as massage) for managing low back pain with or without sciatica, but only as part of a treatment package including exercise, with or without psychological therapy.”

A chiropractor can help by applying spinal adjustments that allow for increased joint space, removing the pressure from the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic care also focuses on the surrounding muscles which may be a contributing factor with sciatica. This will lessen sciatic pain and help you to regain mobility. A chiropractor will also provide you with appropriate advice for quicker recovery.

To stop sciatica from coming back it is recommended that you stay active, taking regular exercise if possible. Try to lose a little weight if you’re overweight, and always use a safe technique when lifting heavy objects. Make sure that you have a good posture when sitting and standing and sit correctly when using a computer and driving a car for long periods of time.

Sciatica will usually get better within 4 to 6 weeks, but it can last longer. You should visit a chiropractor if the pain is not improving, is getting worse or if it is hindering your normal day-to-day activities. At Backworks we take a holistic approach, taking into account mechanical issues that can affect muscles, joints and nerves all around the body.

You can find out about the chiropractic services available at Backworks by calling us now on 01702 342329, we also offer online chiropractic consultations.