Sciatica Physiotherapy in Richmond

Written by Rajan Cheema, MPT, Registered Physiotherapist (CPTBC)

Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg.

When this nerve becomes irritated, it can cause pain that radiates as lower back pain that continues into the buttock, thigh, and sometimes down the leg. Sciatica symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more severe nerve pain that affects walking, sitting, and daily activities.

Sciatica is commonly associated with underlying conditions such as low back pain and herniated discs that affect the nerves of the lower spine.

At Richmond Physiotherapist, we provide physiotherapy treatment for sciatica in Richmond focused on reducing nerve irritation, improving mobility, and helping patients return to normal activities safely.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica typically develops when a structure in the lower spine places pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Common causes include:

• herniated or bulging discs
• lumbar spine joint irritation
• muscle tension in the lower back or glutes
• spinal degeneration
• prolonged sitting or poor posture
• sports injuries or lifting strain

In many cases, sciatica is related to underlying lower back dysfunction that places stress on the nerve.

A physiotherapy assessment helps determine which structures are contributing to the symptoms.

Physiotherapy focuses on identifying these contributing factors and restoring proper movement mechanics.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica symptoms usually affect one side of the body and follows the path of the sciatic nerve.

Common symptoms include:

• sharp or burning pain in the lower back
• pain that radiates into the buttock or leg
• tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
• weakness in the leg
• discomfort when sitting for long periods
• pain that worsens with certain movements

These symptoms can vary in intensity depending on the degree of nerve irritation.

Physiotherapy can help relieve pressure on the nerve and restore normal movement.

How Physiotherapy Helps Sciatica

Physiotherapy aims to address the underlying cause of Physiotherapy focuses on reducing nerve irritation while restoring mobility and strength in the spine and surrounding muscles.

During your assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:

• lumbar spine mobility
• nerve tension and irritation
• muscle tightness in the hips and lower back
• posture and movement mechanics
• core strength and stability

This evaluation allows us to identify the underlying cause of the sciatic nerve irritation and create a treatment plan tailored to your condition.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Sciatica

Common physiotherapy treatments include:

Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment to improve spinal mobility and reduce joint stiffness.

Exercise Rehabilitation
Targeted exercises designed to improve core strength and spinal stability.

Dry Needling / IMS
Helps release tight muscles that may contribute to nerve irritation.

Shockwave Therapy
In some cases, shockwave therapy may help reduce chronic muscular irritation.

Movement Education
Guidance on posture, lifting mechanics, and daily movements that reduce strain on the lower back.

These treatments aim to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve and promote long-term recovery.

When to See a Physiotherapist

You should consider seeing a physiotherapist if:

• Back pain lasts longer than a few weeks
• Pain interferes with work or daily activities
• Movement becomes restricted
• Symptoms radiate into the leg
• The pain repeatedly returns

Early physiotherapy treatment can help prevent chronic pain and support faster recovery.

You can also learn more about pain physiotherapy in Richmond and how treatment helps reduce nerve irritation and improve function.

Frequently Asked Questions