Physiotherapy for Sciatica
Pain that runs from your lower back or buttock down the back of your leg can make sitting, sleeping and walking hard work. At Handforth Physiotherapy and Rehab, our physiotherapists find out what is irritating the nerve and build a plan to settle the pain and get you moving again.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica describes pain, tingling or numbness that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, and the cause can be a disc, a stiff or irritated joint, or tight surrounding muscles. Some people feel a sharp, shooting pain, others a deep ache or pins and needles in the foot.
How a Sciatica Physio Can Help
Your first session with a sciatica physio starts with a thorough assessment of your back, hips and legs, so we know which structures are involved. From there, treatment may include:
- Hands-on treatment to ease muscle tension and stiffness around the lower back and hip
- Gentle nerve and mobility exercises to calm symptoms down the leg
- Strength work for your back, hips and core to reduce the chance of flare-ups
- Practical advice on sitting, driving, lifting and sleeping positions while it settles
Shockwave Therapy for Stubborn Symptoms
Where sciatica comes with long-standing tightness in the buttock or hip, your physiotherapist may suggest radial shockwave therapy alongside your exercise plan.
Your Sciatica Physiotherapist in Handforth
Our clinic is on Wilmslow Road in Handforth, a short drive from Wilmslow, Heald Green, Cheadle, Bramhall and Alderley Edge. You can book directly online with no GP referral, and we see patients who are self-funding or using health insurance.
If sitting in a car is too painful, a sciatica physiotherapist can visit you at home across SK9 and the surrounding area, so treatment can start straight away rather than waiting for the pain to ease.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Most sciatica settles with the right treatment. Please call 999 or go to A&E straight away if you have numbness around your groin or bottom, new problems controlling your bladder or bowel, or weakness in both legs.
Book Sciatica Physiotherapy in Handforth
Don’t let leg pain dictate your day. Book online with a physiotherapist in Handforth, or call 01625 783992 to arrange a home visit.
Sciatica Physiotherapy FAQs
Can’t find what your looking for?
How long does sciatica take to settle?
It varies from person to person. Many people notice an improvement within a few sessions, while longer-standing sciatica can take more time. Your physiotherapist will give you a realistic idea at your first appointment.
Should I rest or keep moving with sciatica?
Gentle movement usually helps more than bed rest. Your physio will show you which movements are safe and which to ease off while symptoms calm down.
Do I need a scan before booking?
No. Most people don’t need a scan to start physiotherapy for sciatica. If your assessment suggests one would help, we will explain why and guide you on next steps.
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