Understanding Sciatica

Sciatica refers to pain, numbness, or altered sensation that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically from the lower back or buttock down the back of the thigh and into the leg or foot. It is not a diagnosis itself, but rather a set of symptoms caused by irritation, compression, or altered nerve function.

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. When it becomes irritated whether at the spine, pelvis, or along its course, symptoms can extend well beyond the low back. While sciatica is commonly associated with disc-related issues, it can also arise from muscular tension, joint restriction, postural strain, or movement imbalances.

Sciatica can present suddenly after an injury or develop gradually over time due to repetitive stress, prolonged sitting, or changes in spinal or pelvic mechanics.

Common Causes and Triggers

Sciatica can be influenced by a range of structural, mechanical, and lifestyle factors, including:

  • Lumbar disc irritation or disc bulging

  • Degenerative changes in the spine (e.g., osteoarthritis, spinal narrowing)

  • Joint dysfunction in the lower back, pelvis, or hips

  • Muscle tension or compression, particularly involving the piriformis or deep hip muscles

  • Prolonged sitting, driving, or poor workstation ergonomics

  • Repetitive bending, twisting, or lifting

  • Previous back injury or periods of reduced movement

  • Pregnancy or postural changes related to load and alignment

Often, more than one factor is involved, which is why a thorough assessment is essential.

Typical Signs and Symptoms

Sciatica symptoms vary widely in intensity and presentation. Common experiences include:

  • Sharp, burning, or electric-like pain radiating down one leg

  • Aching pain in the lower back, buttock, or hip

  • Numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles in the leg or foot

  • Sensations of weakness or heaviness in the affected leg

  • Pain worsened by sitting, bending, coughing, or prolonged standing

  • Relief with certain positions or movement, depending on the cause

Symptoms may be constant or intermittent and can range from mild discomfort to more limiting pain.

How Sciatica Is Evaluated and Managed

At ONE80 Health, sciatica care begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine why the nerve is irritated, not just where it hurts. This includes a detailed history, movement assessment, neurological screening, and evaluation of spinal, pelvic, and hip mechanics. When appropriate, imaging or co-management with other healthcare providers may be recommended.

Management focuses on reducing nerve irritation, restoring normal movement, and improving load tolerance over time. Care is individualized and may include a combination of hands-on treatment, targeted rehabilitation, and education to help you understand how your daily habits influence symptoms.

Early guidance may include:

  • Modifying aggravating activities rather than complete rest

  • Improving posture and movement strategies

  • Gentle mobility or nerve-friendly exercises

  • Strategies to manage flare-ups safely at home

You should seek professional support if:

  • Leg pain persists beyond a few days or progressively worsens

  • Symptoms interfere with sleep, walking, or daily activities

  • You notice increasing numbness, weakness, or changes in coordination

  • Pain follows an injury or develops without a clear cause

Treatments Commonly Used for Sciatica

Treatment is selected based on the underlying contributors identified during your assessment and how your symptoms present. Care may include:

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