Sciatica describes pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. It can be worrying, but most cases settle with the right guidance and a graded plan.
Common symptoms
- Pain that radiates from your lower back or buttock down the back of one leg
- A sharp, burning, shooting or electric-shock-like sensation, rather than a dull ache
- Pins and needles, tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
- Weakness, or a feeling that the leg is heavy or harder to control
- Pain that is worse when sitting, bending, coughing or sneezing
What causes it
- A bulging or slipped disc in the lower spine pressing on the nerve
- Age-related narrowing of the spaces in the spine (spinal stenosis)
- Tightness or irritation in the muscles of the lower back and buttock
- General wear, posture and load-related strain that builds up over time
How we help at PhysioFlexx Falkirk
A thorough assessment
We listen to your story, ask how the pain behaves, and examine movement, strength, nerve signs and how you load your spine and hip, so we understand the likely source and recognise anything that needs onward referral.
Hands-on therapy
Where appropriate, soft-tissue and manual therapy help reduce pain and ease movement. We may discuss sports massage, acupuncture and dry needling, or shockwave therapy, depending on what suits you.
Tailored exercise
Targeted, progressive exercise is central to recovering from sciatica. We give you a manageable plan to calm symptoms, restore movement and build strength, and can track progress with objective testing.
What to expect
What your first appointment looks like
Your first visit is mostly about understanding you. We talk through your symptoms, medical history, daily routine and what you are hoping to get back to, then carry out a physical assessment and, where suitable, begin treatment the same day. You will leave with a clear explanation, the first steps of your plan, and honest answers. Wear comfortable clothing you can move in. If you have private health insurance, we work with Bupa.
Recovery and what to expect
Recovery from sciatica varies from person to person. Many people notice a gradual easing over a number of weeks with the right combination of activity, exercise and support, though some take longer, and flare-ups are normal rather than a sign of failure. We cannot promise a specific outcome or timeframe. What we can commit to is assessing you carefully, explaining things clearly, and adjusting your plan as you progress.
When to seek urgent medical help
Most cases are not serious, but please do not wait for a physiotherapy appointment. Contact your GP, call NHS 111, or go to A&E if you have any of the following:
- Numbness or tingling around your genitals, buttocks or inner thighs (the saddle area)
- Difficulty passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control, or not feeling when you need to go
- Weakness or numbness in both legs, or symptoms that are rapidly getting worse
- Sciatica following a significant accident or fall, or alongside unexplained weight loss, fever or feeling generally unwell
Frequently asked questions
No. You can come to us directly as a private patient, without a GP referral. If we feel your symptoms need input from your GP or another service, we will tell you clearly and explain why.
Current NHS and NICE guidance generally encourages staying as active as your pain allows and avoiding long periods of bed rest. We will help you find the right balance and give you specific, manageable activities.
That depends on how long you have had symptoms, what is causing them and how you respond. We will give you an honest picture after your first assessment, and we will not recommend more sessions than you need.