(2 minute read)
Patients often ask me about sciatica treatment in Bristol as many people are confused about what it is and the symptoms to look out for before seeking help.
One of the major nerves that supply your legs is the sciatic nerve. It runs from the buttock down the back of the thigh and continues to the foot.
When nerves are irritated or compressed, it can cause pain in any area that this nerve supplies.
Irritation of the sciatic nerve causes pain along its path, down the back of the thigh, into the lower leg and often into the foot.
This is called sciatica, and it doesn’t have to include back pain.
True sciatica is actually not that common, but it is often talked about in relation to back pain and leg pain.
What causes sciatica?
If the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, sometimes due to inflammation, then this can produce sciatic symptoms.
This can happen as the roots of the nerve exit the spine and can be (but not always) due to disc injury.
To find out more about slipped disc treatment, please visit here.
What does sciatica feel like?
Typically it causes an aching and sometimes sharp pain in the back of the thigh, into the lower leg and foot. This is how it is often described to me by patients who suffer from it.
How can a Bristol osteopath treat sciatica?
Osteopaths in Bristol are well-placed to accurately diagnose sciatica and, depending on the cause and severity can manage the issue accordingly.
Identifying the problem area(s) is key. Then treatment and careful management can be administered.
Bristol osteopaths can treat many sciatica-related issues and provide treatment advice on the most appropriate management and bespoke exercises to speed recovery.
The good news is that most causes of sciatica can be effectively managed with osteopathic care in Bristol, and my patients usually return to full health.
In some more severe cases, a patient may need referral for further investigations (such as MRI scans) or in the most serious needing surgery.
An osteopath in Bristol will be able to manage or refer as required.
The best sciatica treatment in Bristol will vary for each patient according to their condition.
It’s important not to panic if you get sciatic symptoms, but to get an early diagnosis and swift management.
It's vital to control the inflammation and pain as quickly as possible.
If you're unsure what to ask when booking an osteopath in Bristol, read this first.
To make a booking at my Bristol osteopathy clinic, visit here.