What sciatica actually is
Sciatica describes pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg. It is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, usually caused by irritation or compression of the nerve where it leaves the spine.
The pain can be sharp, burning or shooting, and is sometimes accompanied by pins and needles or numbness in the leg. Understandably it can be alarming, but the reassuring news is that most cases improve well over time with the right approach.
Common causes
Sciatica is often related to changes in the lower back, such as a disc bulge or age-related narrowing that irritates the nerve. Prolonged sitting, sudden loading or a period of low activity can all contribute to a flare-up.
Because the causes vary, a proper assessment matters — it guides which movements and treatments will help you specifically, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
How physiotherapy helps
Physiotherapy for sciatica typically combines hands-on treatment to ease symptoms, specific movements and exercises to reduce nerve irritation, and a graded return to activity. Staying gently active — rather than resting completely — is usually one of the most helpful things you can do.
Just as important is education: understanding what is happening, what is safe, and how to manage a flare-up reduces fear and helps you recover with confidence.
Movement is medicine
It is natural to want to rest when your leg hurts, but too much rest often prolongs sciatica. A physiotherapist helps you find the movements that settle your symptoms and gradually rebuild your tolerance for sitting, walking and daily tasks.
Progress is not always linear — some days are better than others — but a clear plan keeps you moving in the right direction.
When to seek further help
Most sciatica settles, but certain symptoms warrant prompt medical review — including severe or rapidly worsening weakness in the leg, or any changes to bladder or bowel control. If you experience these, seek medical attention without delay.
For ongoing or recurrent sciatica, a physiotherapy assessment is a sound first step to understand your particular case and get moving again.
Care in your own home
For people whose sciatica makes travelling and sitting in a waiting room difficult, home visit physiotherapy is a practical option — assessment and treatment come to you, in the setting where your symptoms actually occur.
Fletcher Physiotherapy treats sciatica and lower back pain across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. To book an assessment, call 0404 791 756.