Do you suffer from sciatica? Having to deal with sciatic pain can be exhausting, often involving medication, trips to the GP and regular discomfort. We here at Poplar Osteopathy can help. We are an osteopathic clinic in Milton Keynes, and we use a variety of manual therapies including osteopathy and therapeutic massage to alleviate pain and bring relief. We also treat related conditions such as back pain, arthritis and sports injury.
Sciatica is one of the most common chronic conditions we treat at the clinic. Below, we take a detailed look at the potential causes, symptoms and treatment options. If you suffer from sciatica, or any other chronic condition, contact us now to see how we can help you, or use the quick and easy online booking system to book your appointment.
We are proud to have helped many people to remain pain-free and have over 50 5-star reviews on Google.
It is no surprise that neck pain is often prevalent in everyday life. There are many factors such as lifestyle, injury or changes in the body that can lead to discomfort and pain.The most recognisable symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks and down the back of the leg. Other symptoms commonly associated with the condition are listed below.
Sharp or Shooting Pain: Often described as electric or searing, the pain can be intermittent or constant.
Numbness or Tingling: Many people experience a pins-and-needles sensation in the affected leg or foot.
Weakness: Muscle weakness in the affected leg may occur, making it difficult to move or walk.
Pain When Moving: Pain often intensifies with activities like bending, twisting, or prolonged sitting.
Unilateral Symptoms: Sciatica typically affects only one side of the body, though bilateral cases can occur in rare circumstances.
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Sciatica usually stems from conditions that compress or irritate the sciatic nerve. Although sometimes stemming from serious underlying causes, most sciatica is easily treatable with physical therapy sessions, without any need for medication or invasive treatment.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes through its outer layer, compressing the adjacent sciatic nerve. This is one of the more common causes of sciatica.
Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
The piriformis muscle, which is located deep in the buttocks, can spasm or become tight, compressing the sciatic nerve beneath it. This is a less common but significant cause of sciatica.
This occurs when a vertebra slips out of place, which can pinch the sciatic nerve. This is known as spondylolisthesis.
Accidents or falls that leave the lower spine damaged, or injuries to the pelvis or surrounding structures can also lead to sciatica.
As we age, so do our spinal discs. They may potentially lose their cushioning ability, causing nerve irritation or compression which can lead to degenerative disc disease.
The additional weight and posture changes during pregnancy can sometimes lead to sciatic nerve irritation.
Aimee is a yoga teacher and osteopath who combines these complementary disciplines to create a unique approach to ongoing health.
Rhodri is an experienced osteopath, passionate about biomechanics and understanding the human body.
Our person-centred practitioners are registered with the General Osteopathic Council and have many years experience in helping you towards a pain-free life.
Aimee is a yoga teacher and osteopath who combines these complementary disciplines to create a unique approach to ongoing health.
Rhodri is an experienced osteopath, passionate about biomechanics and understanding the human body.
Here at Poplar Osteopathy, we use a combination of manual therapy and targeted exercse to manage your sciatica effectively. We will create a tailored plan that suits your individual symptoms, alleviating your pain and bringing you relief.
Osteopathy and related physical therapies are the cornerstone of our sciatica treatment, aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility and restoring alignment.
Using massage-like techniques, soft tissue manipulation can release muscle tension, particularly in the lower back, glutes and legs.
Spinal Mobilisation refers to gentle movements aimed at improving spinal alignment and relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Focused on releasing restrictions in the connective tissues, myofascial release can bring relief to the areas of the spine surrounding muscles and nerves.
A tailored exercise program is important for strengthening the muscles that support the spine, improving flexibility and preventing future flare-ups. Core strengthening exercises like planks or bridges can be used to stabilise the lumbar spine, and targeted stretches for the hamstrings, piriformis, and lower back can relieve the tension and pain caused by sciatica. Low-impact activities such as walking or swimming can also promote overall spinal health.
Poor posture can often exacerbate sciatica. Our clinicians will provide practical advice on maintaining proper posture during daily activities and suggest ergonomic adjustments to your workstation, car seat or sleeping position.
Addressing lifestyle, specifically factors such as weight management, stress levels and diet, can significantly improve sciatica. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and magnesium may help reduce inflammation and promote nerve health.
Osteopathy offers a non-invasive, drug-free alternative for managing sciatica. Our multidisciplinary, personalised approach ensures that treatment is tailored to the individual’s specific needs. Our osteopathic treatment offers numerous benefits:
Sciatica can be a debilitating condition, but with the right approach, it is manageable. Here at Poplar, we offer a comprehensive and patient-centred approach to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of sciatica. Through manual therapy, exercise and lifestyle modifications, we can help you regain mobility, reduce pain and improve your quality of life.
If you’re struggling with sciatica pain, contact us now. Alternatively, use our quick and easy online booking system to book your appointment. Our clinic is conveniently located in Bletchley, Milton Keynes. You can normally see one of us face-to-face within 24-48 hours of making an appointment and our 45-minute appointment times give enough time to carry out a thorough examination and diagnosis, and begin treatment at your first appointment.
The information on this page has been reviewed for accuracy by Rhodri Griffiths M.Ost, Osteopath, and Aimee Newton M.Ost, Osteopath
The Poplar Osteopathy Clinic
B1/S Building B
23 First Ave
Bletchley
Milton Keynes
MK1 1DX
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© 2023 The Poplar Osteopathy Clinic
Web Design by Market Your Clinic Online