Sciatic nerve compression in the hip can cause referral pain down the leg to the knee
The main causes of sciatica is often thought to be from the compression/irritation of the sciatic nerve from the back and hip muscles which can cause referral pain down the leg to the knee.
Symptoms people often describe can range from pain down the leg when sitting, feeling of tightness in the hip, and sometimes even numbness and tingling down the legs.
It is reported that 21% of sciatica sufferers also additionally experience significant pain in their lower back and hip muscles.
Sciatica can cause pain that travels from the lower back into the buttock, thigh or leg. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to significant pain affecting walking, work and everyday activities.
At Functional Physio SA, we provide personalised sciatica physiotherapy to help reduce symptoms, improve mobility and support long-term recovery.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica describes irritation or sensitivity of the sciatic nerve. It is often associated with lower back problems but can involve several different contributing factors.
Symptoms may include:
- Lower back pain
- Buttock pain
- Leg pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Reduced movement
- Difficulty sitting or standing comfortably
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Treatment may involve:
- Movement assessment
- Exercise rehabilitation
- Education about pain management
- Mobility exercises
- Strengthening
- Manual therapy where appropriate
Your physiotherapist will guide you through safe ways to restore movement and confidence.
Why Choose Functional Physio SA?
We focus on understanding your individual symptoms rather than simply treating the painful area. Our approach combines education, exercise and practical strategies to support recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I rest with sciatica?
Prolonged rest is generally not recommended. Gentle movement is often beneficial.
Can physiotherapy help nerve pain?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help many people manage sciatica symptoms and improve function.
Do I need imaging?
Not always. Your physiotherapist will assess whether further investigation is required.
Helping Adelaide Move Better
Sciatica treatment often combines Exercise Rehabilitation, Manual Therapy, and strategies used for Back Pain Physiotherapy.
Contact Functional Physio SA today to arrange your sciatica assessment.
How can Functional Physio SA help?
Physios are experts with pain and function, so whether it’s a major injury, or assistance to improve performance there is always a reason to see a physio.
Our highly experienced physios use a wide range of treatment approaches based on extensive qualifications and further training.
After visiting Functional Physio SA you should have a clear diagnosis and understanding of what is going, and a treatment plan detailing how you will get better including how long it will take to heal, how often you will need to see the physio, what treatments we will provide in your program, and what exercises you need to do to get back to doing the things you love.
Want to know if Functional Physio SA can help with your sciatica pain?
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