Condition
Physiotherapy for Sciatica and Leg Pain
Pain, tingling or weakness travelling from the lower back into the buttock and leg.
Sciatica describes symptoms travelling along the path of the sciatic nerve, usually from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. It is a description of symptoms rather than a diagnosis in itself.
Many episodes settle over weeks with graded movement and time, though the timeline varies and some cases need medical review.
Last reviewed: 2026-01-12 · SS Physiotherapy Clinic
Common symptoms
- Pain radiating from the back or buttock into the leg
- Tingling, burning or pins and needles down the leg
- Symptoms that worsen with prolonged sitting
- Difficulty standing straight during an acute episode
- Occasional weakness in the foot or leg
Possible contributing factors
- Irritation of a nerve root in the lower back
- Disc-related changes
- Age-related narrowing around the nerve pathway
- Sustained postures that increase nerve sensitivity
- A sudden increase in bending or lifting load
How physiotherapy may help
- Finding positions and movements that reduce nerve irritation
- Graded movement and nerve mobility work where suitable
- Progressive strengthening as symptoms settle
- Monitoring symptom pattern for changes that need review
- Practical advice for sitting, driving and sleeping
Assessment and treatment approach
- Assessment of movement, strength, reflexes and sensation as appropriate
- Screening for signs that require medical referral
- Position and movement strategies for acute stages
- Progressive exercise as symptoms centralise
- Return-to-activity planning
General self-care advice
- Avoid long periods of sitting where possible
- Move regularly within comfortable limits
- Track whether leg symptoms are moving closer to the back over time
- Discuss pain relief with your doctor if symptoms are severe
When to seek medical care
- Numbness around the groin, buttocks or inner thighs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Progressive or significant leg weakness
- Symptoms in both legs at once
If symptoms are severe or worsening quickly, contact a doctor or emergency services without waiting for a physiotherapy appointment.
FAQs
Questions about sciatica
Related services
Other conditions
Get assessed for sciatica
Tell us about your condition and we will confirm a suitable date and time. You can also call or message the clinic directly.