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At Still Point Osteopathy, we often have patients that are experiencing lower back pain and other symptoms that are associated with sciatica such as weakness and discomfort in the leg or foot. This pain can be quite debilitating despite whether it is sharp or dull as it is often consistent.
Presently in a large age group, from 25–60-year-olds, sciatica is often due to wear and tear in the back or prior injuries. While the term ‘sciatica’ is often used to as a general way to describe pain through the back, into the buttocks, and down the back of the thigh, sometimes even down to your feet, the condition itself is actually an irritation of the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve is made up of several smaller nerves that originate from the spinal cord in the lower back (lumbar spine) and come together to form one big sciatic nerve that passes through your buttocks and down the thigh and leg, therefore causing discomfort in several regions.
Evidence Based Approach
Our practitioners use a combination of current literature and clinical experience to achieve the best results for you
Hollisitic
Our practitioners use a combination of current literature and clinical experience to achieve the best results for you
Tailored Treatments
Your treatment is tailored specifically to your needs and with realistic prognosis and treatment plans.
Causes & Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve which can be triggered by many things such as:
- A prolapsed, herniated, bulging or slipped disc/s leading to pressure on the nerves in the spine
- Arthritis and disc or joint degeneration can cause bone spurs pressing on nerves in the lower back
- Muscle spasms in the lower back and gluteal region
- A sprained/locked facet joint in the lower back
- Piriformis syndrome caused by the piriformis muscle near the top of the hip joint going into spasm placing pressure on the sciatic nerve
- Pregnancy during the mid to late stages dur to body changes
- Spondylilsthesis – a spinal condition which causes vertebrae to slip out of place
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Tumour and infection are less common however can also create pressure on the sciatic nerve
Signs to look out for are great and varied, ranging from an ache in the lower back, buttocks, legs and thighs, to burning pains, pins and needles, numbness and a tingling sensation when walking. It is often aggravated or triggered by long periods of sitting or standing. Some sufferers also complain of worsening symptoms when coughing, sneezing, bending or twisting.
How An Osteopath Can Help With Sciatica
Seeing a qualified osteopath at Still Point Osteopathy is an excellent treatment option for sciatica. We take your health history into account, checking for any previous injuries or illness that may be contributing to your symptoms. We also conduct a thorough assessment of your joints and muscles to determine the best treatment plan that is tailored to your unique situation, health and well-being. We take a holistic approach to healthcare, so we take other areas of your body into consideration to see how they work together.
Osteopathic Treatment for Sciatica
Treatment for sciatica is based on decreasing inflammation in the affected areas by using gentle techniques such as stretching, massage, gentle release of muscles and connective tissues, muscle energy techniques, mobilisation and articulation of joints and muscles, dry needling and more. Self-management at home can also play a vital role in reducing inflammation and symptoms. Our team of osteopaths will recommend some of the following options depending on your situation:
- Rest
- Medication (prescribed by a GP)
- Natural supplements such as magnesium, fish oil and turmeric to help with muscle spasm and inflammation
- Use of heat and ice pack
- Awareness of posture techniques including when lifting, sitting, driving, working etc
- Optimal sleeping positions with an extra pillow for support if required
- Gentle strengthening exercises and stretches
Once the pain has been managed and reduced, we will also help you with a list of exercises for rehabilitation and maintenance.
Still Point Osteopathy
North Brisbane Osteopathy
2 great locations Ashgrove and North lakes
Contact Us
Still Point Osteopathy (previously known as Discover Osteopathy) Ashgrove.
Ph: 0733 666 831
Fax: 0733 666 381
Address: 10/338 Waterworks rd
Ashgrove 4060
Email: admin@stillpointosteopathy.rehab