Sciatica pain: Causes, symptoms, and how osteopathy can help
Sciatica is a common yet debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back down through the buttock and leg, sciatica can disrupt daily life, making even simple movements painful.
If you are struggling with sciatica, you may wonder: What is the best treatment for sciatica? While painkillers and rest can provide temporary relief, long-term solutions often require a more holistic approach. Osteopathy, a hands-on therapy that focuses on restoring balance to the body, can be highly effective in treating sciatica by addressing its root cause rather than just masking symptoms.
At Optimum Osteopathy, a clinic in Marylebone, London, our osteopath specializes in sciatica treatment, using gentle, evidence-based techniques to relieve pain and improve mobility. In this article, we will explore the causes of sciatica, its symptoms, and how osteopathy can provide lasting relief.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the body, running from the lower spine down each leg—becomes compressed or irritated. Common sciatica causes include:
Slipped disc
When a spinal disc protrudes, it can press on the sciatic nerve.
Spinal stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to aging, can compress nerves.
Poor posture and sedentary lifestyle
Sitting for long periods can weaken muscles and increase nerve compression.
Pregnancy
Weight and hormonal changes can contribute to sciatic nerve pressure.
Who is most likely to get sciatica?
- Adults aged 30–50 (due to age-related spinal changes)
- People with sedentary jobs (prolonged sitting weakens the spine)
- Those with previous back injuries
- Obese individuals (extra weight increases spinal pressure)
Sciatica Symptoms: How to Recognize It
Sciatica pain varies, but common sciatica symptoms include:
- Sharp, burning pain from the lower back to the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Worsening pain when sitting, coughing, or sneezing
If left untreated, sciatica can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility.
What is the best treatment for sciatica?
While some cases resolve with rest, persistent sciatica often requires professional care.
Common sciatica treatments include:
Medication
Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants (temporary relief).
Physical therapy
Strengthening and stretching exercises.
Chiropractic adjustments
Focuses on spinal realignment.
Osteopathic treatment
A whole-body approach to relieve nerve compression.
Why osteopathy stands out as a leading sciatica treatment
Osteopathy takes a holistic approach, assessing not just the spine but also muscles, joints, and lifestyle factors contributing to nerve irritation.
What will an osteopath do for sciatica?
At Optimum Osteopathy, our osteopath in Marylebone, London, uses a combination of:
Soft tissue massage
Relieves muscle tension around the sciatic nerve.
Joint mobilization
Gentle movements to improve spinal and pelvic alignment.
Stretching Techniques
Targets tight muscles (e.g., piriformis, hamstrings).
Postural advice
Corrects sitting and standing habits to prevent recurrence.
Exercise Prescription
Strengthens core and back muscles for long-term support.
Unlike quick-fix adjustments, osteopathic manipulation for sciatica focuses on long-term healing, reducing the risk of future flare-ups.
What is the best position to relieve sciatica?
While osteopathy provides professional relief, certain home remedies can ease discomfort:
- Lying on your back with knees elevated (reduces nerve pressure)
- Side sleeping with a pillow Between knees (aligns hips)
- Gentle stretching (e.g., knee-to-chest stretch, piriformis stretch)
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting (increases nerve compression)
For personalized advice, consult our osteopath in Marylebone for tailored recommendations
What therapist is best for sciatica?
While chiropractors and physiotherapists can help, osteopathy is ideal for those seeking:
✔ A gentler, non-invasive approach
✔ Treatment that addresses the root cause (not just symptoms)
✔ Whole-body care, including posture and lifestyle adjustments
Conclusion: Finding lasting relief from sciatica
Sciatica can be painful and frustrating, but the right treatment can make all the difference. While medications and rest may help temporarily, osteopathy offers a natural, long-term solution by correcting imbalances and improving nerve function.
If you are searching for the best treatment for sciatica, consider visiting our clinic in Marylebone, London. At Optimum Osteopathy, we are dedicated to helping you regain mobility, reduce pain, and achieve optimal wellness.
Take the first step toward a pain-free life!
Frequently asked questions
What will an osteopath do for sciatica?
At Optimum Osteopathy in Marylebone, our osteopaths use a combination of soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, and targeted stretching to relieve nerve compression. We also provide postural advice and exercises to address the root cause of your sciatica for long-term relief.
What is the best treatment for sciatica?
While rest and medication offer temporary relief, osteopathic treatment is considered one of the most effective long-term solutions. It combines hands-on therapy with lifestyle adjustments to reduce nerve irritation and prevent recurrence.
What is the best position to relieve sciatica pain at home?
Try lying on your back with knees elevated (pillows under your knees) or sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs. Avoid sitting for long periods, as this worsens nerve pressure.
Can sciatica go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but chronic or severe sciatica often requires professional treatment. Ignoring symptoms can lead to prolonged nerve damage or muscle weakness.
When should I see an osteopath for sciatica?
Seek help if:
- Pain lasts over a week
- Symptoms worsen or spread
- You experience leg weakness or numbness
- Home remedies don’t help