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Sciatica Physiotherapy in Burlington: Conservative Treatment & Pain Relief

  • Writer: Folarin Babatunde PT PhD
    Folarin Babatunde PT PhD
  • Oct 22, 2024
  • 4 min read

Cogent Rehab Blog

Folarin Babatunde PT PhD MScSEM MScPT BScPT

October 22, 2024



Burlington Physiotherapy for a patient with pain in the back and radiating down the leg.
Burlington Physiotherapy for a patient with pain in the back and radiating down the leg.

Sciatica, also known as lumbosacral radicular syndrome, ischias, or nerve root pain, refers to pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock, thigh, and leg. It often occurs when a spinal disc is damaged or worn out, pressing on the sciatic nerve. Less commonly, sciatica can be caused by spinal stenosis, tumors, or other structural issues.


The good news is that most cases can be managed with conservative treatment — especially physiotherapy.


Learn more about our orthopaedic physiotherapy services in Burlington



What Is Sciatica? | Causes and Risk Factors

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower spine through the buttocks and down each leg. Sciatica typically results from irritation of the spinal nerve roots that join to form the sciatic nerve. Like concussion, sciatica involves nerve-related symptoms that physiotherapy can address.


Common causes include:

  • Disc herniation or degenerative disc disease

  • Spinal stenosis or foraminal narrowing

  • Spondylolisthesis or arthritis

  • Rarely, tumors or cysts

  • Late pregnancy due to increased ligament laxity and nerve compression


    A patient diagnosed with sciatica and reporting pain in the right buttock radiating down to the back of the right leg.
    Compression at the spinal nerve root leading to irritation of the sciatic nerve

Risk factors:

  • Age (peak between 45–64 years)

  • Tall body height

  • Smoking and high stress levels

  • Physically demanding jobs (heavy lifting, twisting)

  • Prolonged vibration exposure (e.g., truck drivers)


Athletes with back injuries can develop sciatica. Discover how sports injury physiotherapy in Burlington helps prevent and manage flare-ups.”


Common Symptoms of Sciatica Pain

Sciatica can range from mild discomfort to severe disability. Symptoms usually affect one side of the body.


Leg Pain and Nerve Irritation

Pain radiating down the leg, often sharp, achy, or “electric shock” in nature.


Numbness, Tingling, and Weakness

Pins and needles, burning sensations, or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot.


Worsening Pain With Sitting or Bending

Pain often increases when sitting, bending forward, coughing, or sneezing.


Similar to post-concussion syndrome, some cases of sciatica lead to persistent symptoms that require ongoing care.


⚠️ Seek medical help immediately if you experience sudden weakness, loss of bladder/bowel control, or numbness in the groin area.


Conservative Management of Sciatica

Most people improve with non-surgical care. Conservative treatments include:

  • Short-term pain relief with anti-inflammatory medications

  • Activity modification (avoiding prolonged bed rest)

  • Ergonomic adjustments for work and posture

  • Staying gently active with walking and light movement


Physiotherapy for Sciatica Relief in Burlington

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center Burlington, physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques to reduce pain and restore function.


Manual Therapy and Hands-On Treatment

Targeted spinal mobilization and soft-tissue techniques help improve movement and reduce nerve irritation.


Exercise Therapy to Improve Mobility and Strength

Supervised exercise programs include:

  • Lumbar stabilization

  • Nerve mobilization (“nerve gliding”)

  • Core and hip strengthening

  • Directional preference exercises (e.g., McKenzie method)


Posture and Core Training for Sciatica Prevention

Education and core training help reduce future flare-ups by improving spinal stability.


Benefits of Physiotherapy for Sciatica Pain

  • Relieves nerve irritation and leg pain

  • Improves flexibility, posture, and core stability

  • Reduces risk of chronic sciatica or surgery

  • Builds confidence to stay active safely


When to Seek Professional Help for Sciatica

See a physiotherapist if:

  • Symptoms last more than 6–8 weeks despite self-care

  • Pain radiates below the knee or worsens with movement

  • You develop tingling, weakness, or loss of sensation

Early physiotherapy intervention improves recovery and lowers the risk of persistent pain.


FAQs on Sciatica and Physiotherapy

1. What is the fastest way to cure sciatica with physiotherapy?

There’s no instant cure, but manual therapy and targeted exercises help reduce symptoms quickly and safely.


2. How long does sciatica take to heal with conservative treatment?

Most people improve in 2–12 weeks. About 30% may have symptoms longer than a year without treatment.


3. Can exercises make sciatica worse?

Yes, if not chosen correctly. A physiotherapist will prescribe safe, evidence-based exercises.


4. Do I need a referral for sciatica physiotherapy in Burlington?

No referral is needed. You can book directly with Cogent Rehab.


5. What happens if sciatica is left untreated?

Pain may become chronic, leading to muscle weakness and reduced mobility.


Final Thoughts: Sciatica Treatment in Burlington With Physiotherapy


Sciatica can be painful and frustrating, but most cases improve with conservative care. Physiotherapy is the first-line treatment, helping patients relieve pain, restore strength, and prevent flare-ups.


Call 905-635-4422 or Book a sciatica physiotherapy assessment online at Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington.










Sources

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  2. Jensen RK, Kongsted A, Kjaer P, Koes B. Diagnosis and treatment of sciatica. BMJ. 2019;19:367:I6273

  3. Koes BW, van Tulder MW, Peul WC. Diagnosis and treatment of sciatica. BMJ. 2007;334:1313-1317.

  4. Oosterhuis Tet alRehabilitation after lumbar disc surgery Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 3;2014: CD003007

  5. Ostelo RWJG. Physiotherapy management of sciatica. J Physio. 2020;83-88

  6. Stafford Ma Peng P, Hill DA. Sciatica: a review of history, epidemiology, pathogenesis, and the role of epidural steroid injection in management. British J Anas 2007;99:461-473.

  7. Stochkendahl MJ et al. National Clinical Guidelines for non-surgical treatment of patients with recent onset low back pain or lumbar radiculopathy Eur Spine J, 27;2018: 60-75

  8. ter Meulen et al. Diagnosis and treatment of sciatica in the Netherlands: A survey among neurologists and anesthesiologists. Eu Neurol. 2021;84:219-229.

  9. Zaina et al. A systematic review of clinical practice guidelines for persons with non-specific low back pain with and without radiculopathy: Identification of best evidence for rehabilitation to develop the WHO's Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2023;104:1913-1927.

  10. Figure 1: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435#dialogId6878624

  11. Figure 2: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica



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