Sciatica describes irritation of the sciatic nerve, producing pain that travels from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis — the job of an assessment is to find the source.
Common causes
- Disc bulge pressing on a nerve root
- Narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis)
- Deep gluteal muscle tension compressing the nerve
- Sudden increases in load or prolonged sitting
Typical symptoms
Sharp, burning or electric pain down one leg, often with pins and needles or numbness. Symptoms usually change with position — that responsiveness is what we use to guide treatment.
Recovery timeline
Most cases settle substantially within six to twelve weeks with hands-on treatment, nerve mobility work and graded strengthening. Early movement and reassurance make a measurable difference.
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