Can Osteopathy help with Sciatica?

​Sciatica is a general term for nerve related leg pain. Sciatica can be extremely painful and is frequently accompanied by symptoms of weakness and altered sensation (numbness, pins-and-needles, burning). There are many different causes of nerve irritation which can lead to these symptoms, which are frequently related to problems within the lumbar disc, lower back or even the pelvis
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Spinal discs are present between every vertebral level in the spine.  The main function in the spine is to provide a shock absorbent between the vertebrae, support for the upper body, allowing spinal movement in all directions and creating space for existing nerve roots between the vertebrae.  The discs over time can become strained and weakened, this may be due to poor posture, heavy lifting, twisting or weaknesses in muscles. 
 
The discs can therefore start to bulge (disc bulge), tear (annular tear) or protrude potentially leading to a disc prolapse.  If a disc has prolapsed or is bulging on a nerve root this will cause nerve pain (radiculopathy).  The symptoms experienced are a “sciatic” type pain which can be felt into the legs 

Osteopaths are highly trained to allow them to diagnose different causes of sciatica. They are also able to diagnose other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. An osteopath will begin by taking a detailed history of your condition, followed by assessing your posture and movements. Where suitable, performing a hands-on evaluation to identify muscle tightness, movement restrictions and conducting neurological examinations. If the Osteopath feels that you need any further investigations into your symptoms than they are able to refer you for these.
 
At Health Point Practice we will provide you with treatment that is specific to the cause of your symptoms. This can include soft tissue massage, joint articulation, medical dry needling to tight muscles and where appropriate joint manipulation. We will also provide you with exercises to help manage you pain and appropriate rehabilitation.
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