Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Sciatica is a common condition that affects the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in the body. When this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can lead to pain that radiates down the lower back, buttock, and leg. It’s often misunderstood, but with the right treatment and education, most people with sciatica can find lasting relief and return to full function.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower spine through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It’s not a diagnosis on its own, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue, such as a disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or muscular compression.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is usually caused by irritation or compression of the nerve roots in the lower spine. Common causes include:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebra slipping out of place)
- Piriformis syndrome (when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve)
- Pregnancy or postural changes
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica symptoms can vary in intensity and may include:
- Sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or bending forward
- Typically, the symptoms affect only one side of the body
Diagnosing Sciatica
A thorough assessment by your healthcare provider includes:
- Medical History: Understanding your symptoms, lifestyle, and health background
- Physical Examination: Testing your range of motion, reflexes, strength, and nerve tension
- Imaging (if needed): X-rays or MRI may be recommended if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening
Treatment Options for Sciatica
Most cases of sciatica improve with conservative care over a few weeks to months.
Early Management
- Activity modification: Gentle movement is encouraged, but avoid aggravating positions
- Heat and ice therapy: Can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter medications may be recommended temporarily
Hands-On Rehabilitation
- Physiotherapy: Focuses on relieving nerve pressure, improving mobility, and strengthening the core
- Kinesiology: Helps restore postural balance and optimize movement patterns to reduce recurrence
- Massage Therapy: Relieves tight muscles in the lower back and hips that may contribute to nerve irritation
- Athletic Therapy: Great for active individuals returning to sport or demanding work, emphasizing functional movement and strength
Additional Support
- Education: Teaching proper lifting techniques, posture, and sleep positions
- Progressive exercise: Gradual return to activity is key to long-term success
- If symptoms persist or worsen, our clinic works closely with local orthopedic specialists in Kamloops for further assessment or imaging when necessary
Recovery and Prevention
Recovery time varies depending on the cause and severity, but most people see improvement within 6 to 12 weeks with consistent rehab. Prevention strategies include:
- Strengthening the core and glutes
- Improving posture and ergonomics
- Staying active and avoiding prolonged sitting
- Learning proper lifting techniques
How We Help in Kamloops
At our Kamloops clinic, we offer a comprehensive, team-based approach to treating sciatica:
- Physiotherapy, kinesiology, athletic therapy, and massage therapy work together to relieve pain, restore mobility, and prevent flare-ups
- We collaborate with local orthopedic surgeons and imaging facilities for fast and efficient referrals when necessary
- Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique goals and lifestyle
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Don’t let sciatica limit your movement or keep you from the activities you enjoy. Our experienced team in Kamloops is here to help you get back on your feet—stronger, safer, and pain-free. Book your assessment today and start your journey to recovery.