By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
Lumbar radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica, is a condition that manifests as pain, tingling, and numbness due to compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. This condition typically affects one side of the body, causing discomfort in the buttock, back of the leg, and feet.
Sciatica can significantly impact daily activities, with symptoms ranging from moderate to severe pain, numbness, and difficulty in movement. Here, we explore the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and various treatment options for sciatica, emphasising the clinical benefits of osteopathy.
Sciatica symptoms include shooting, burning, or stabbing pains that typically affect the buttocks, back of the thigh, leg, and foot. This pain may be constant or intermittent, depending on the severity. Associated symptoms include tingling (pins & needles), numbness in the leg, weakness, and difficulty walking. Pain often worsens with prolonged sitting, standing, turning in bed, coughing, sneezing, and straining on the toilet.
Seek medical help if you have:
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, cauda equina syndrome, which requires immediate attention.
Manual therapists (osteopaths, physiotherapists, and chiropractors) can diagnose sciatica through patient history and physical examination. Imaging like X-rays or an MRI may be needed for a detailed assessment.
Home treatment involves resting for the first 2 weeks, followed by light stretching and then bodyweight strengthening exercises. A structured rehabilitation plan advised by an osteopath is recommended to support recovery.
Staying hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water per day is crucial. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, fizzy drinks, and energy drinks. An anti-inflammatory diet can also help in managing symptoms and promoting recovery.
Sciatic nerve pain can be effectively managed through various treatments, including osteopathy, lifestyle adjustments, and medical interventions. Osteopathy, in particular, serves as a better option due to its holistic approach. It not only addresses the immediate symptoms through hands-on treatment but also improves overall posture and movement, thereby reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Osteopaths provide tailored exercises, lifestyle advice, and nutrition advice, promoting a comprehensive recovery. Early diagnosis and a structured treatment plan with osteopathy can lead to optimal long-term relief and enhanced quality of life.
At Aston Clinic London, our osteopaths are committed to providing comprehensive management and relief for sciatica pain. We develop personalised treatment plans focussing on individual needs, incorporating advanced hands-on techniques, structured exercise regimens, and targeted lifestyle advice to ensure a holistic approach to recovery.
Our team emphasises improving overall posture and movement, aiming to promote long-term relief and enhance quality of life through professional and dedicated osteopathic care.
To book a session with our practitioners, click here. Alternatively, you can contact us at 020 8942 3148 to learn how our treatments can benefit you.
Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.
By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
