Osteopathy · Sciatica
Sciatica
& leg pain.
Leg pain, nerve pain, or pins and needles — there's a reason for it.
Last reviewed: May 2025
Sciatica describes pain, numbness, or tingling that travels from the lower back or buttock into the leg. It's a symptom, not a diagnosis — the real question is where the nerve is being irritated and why.
Common causes
Disc herniation
A bulging disc pressing on a lumbar nerve root. Usually causes pain in a specific pattern down the leg.
Piriformis compression
The sciatic nerve runs beneath (or through) the piriformis muscle. Tightness here can mimic disc-related sciatica.
Lumbar joint compression
Facet joints or narrowed spaces compressing the nerve canal — more common with extension.
Referred pain
Not all leg pain is nerve pain. Gluteal and hip muscle referral patterns can mimic sciatica closely.
How we treat it
We identify the source of nerve irritation through orthopaedic testing and movement assessment. Treatment targets the root cause — not just symptom management — using lumbar mobilisation, nerve desensitisation, and progressive loading.
Ready to get started?
Same-week appointments available. Initial consult 60 min · $149 · HICAPS on-site.
Common questions
FAQ: sciatica
Is it always a disc?
No. Muscular compression, facet joints, and SIJ dysfunction are just as common. Accurate assessment matters before assuming a disc.
Will I need surgery?
The vast majority of sciatica resolves with conservative care. Surgery is a last resort and rarely necessary.
Can I exercise?
Yes — the right kind. We'll build a specific program that loads the nerve without aggravating it.
Also treating
Areas we serve
Seen enough?
Let's fix it.
Book an initial assessment in Berwick. Same-week availability most weeks.