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Writer's pictureAnna Birch Physio

Can Physiotherapy Help with Sciatica?


Physiotherapist assessing patient's leg


Sciatica is very common condition, affecting younger athletic and also older adults alike. It is very common in pregnancy as the body is put under more pressure due to the growing baby! It often causes pain, numbness, and discomfort that radiates from the lower back to the legs. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you might be wondering if physiotherapy can offer relief. Physiotherapy can be really effective for treating for sciatica - and with clinic and home visit options, help is more accessible than ever.


Understanding Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and down each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. There are a number of things that can cause this to happen - in most cases the cause isn't serious and that pain will resolve by itself in 6-8 weeks. As the nerve is affected, pain can be very intense have have a huge affect on your quality of life and ability to function.


How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy can help you understand the likley causes of sciatica, and treatment will be tailored around helping you relieve the pain in the short term and also precventing the issue from returning. A combination of hands on treatment, exercises and individual taliored advice will aims to improve your mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. Examples of tretament Anna commonly uses for sciatica include:

  • Manual Therapy & Massage: Hands-on techniques to reduce tension in joints and muscles of the lower back and legs, primarily aimed at relieving pain.

  • Mobility Exercises: Targeted to relieve tension in the lower back and leg.

  • Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the core and back muscles, which can help prevent future flare-ups.

  • Education & Advice: Guidance on posture, ergonomics, and movements to avoid aggravating the sciatic nerve, as well as any changed that are recommended to reduce the risk of the issue reoccuring.


The Benefits of Physiotherapy at Home or Virtually

One of the most convenient ways to manage sciatica is through physiotherapy at home - as offtered by professionals like Anna Birch Physio in Bury St. Edmunds. This can be either in person or virtually - ideal if you have limited mobility, are finding travelling challenging due to pain or are a new mum. With this approach, you can receive personalised care in the comfort of your own space. Virtual physiotherapy sessions are also valuable - the most valuable information is gained through questioning as opposed to the physical examination so you can still be provided with likley causes/diagnosis, and advice on how to manage things including exercises, posture and lifestyle modifications. Follow up treatment can then be arranged as required.


Why Choose Anna Birch Physio in Bury St. Edmunds?

If you’re in the Bury St. Edmunds area, Anna Birch Physio offers expert care for those dealing with sciatica. Known for her compassionate approach and deep expertise, Anna Birch tailors treatments to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you prefer in-person sessions in clinic or the convenience of physiotherapy at home, Anna Birch can help you achieve relief from sciatica and regain control of your life.


Conclusion

Living with sciatica doesn’t have to mean enduring constant pain and discomfort. Physiotherapy is an evidence based method to address the underlying causes of sciatica and restore your mobility and comfort. With options like physiotherapy at home and trusted professionals such as Anna Birch Physio in Bury St. Edmunds, relief is within reach. Don’t hesitate to explore physiotherapy as a solution for sciatica — your body will thank you!

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