Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and How Physiotherapy in Hamilton & Stoney Creek Can Help
Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and How Physiotherapy in Hamilton & Stoney Creek Can Help
Sharp pain that travels from your lower back down the leg? It could be sciatica. The good news: evidence-based physiotherapy can relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent flare-ups—without surgery.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica describes irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve—the body’s largest nerve—running from the lower spine through the hips and down each leg. When irritated, it can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness along the nerve pathway.
Sciatica is a symptom caused by an underlying issue, most commonly:
- Herniated or “slipped” disc pressing on the nerve
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Degenerative disc changes
- Muscle tension/imbalance (e.g., piriformis involvement)
- Poor posture or prolonged sitting
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
- Sharp, shooting pain down one leg (often below the knee)
- Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting/standing
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Difficulty bending, lifting, or walking
How Physiotherapy Helps Sciatica
Physiotherapy is a first-line, non-surgical treatment for sciatica. At Wellspring Health & Wellness (Hamilton & Stoney Creek), we build a personalized plan that targets pain relief now and long-term resilience.
- Pain & inflammation control: Gentle mobilizations, manual therapy, and modalities to reduce nerve irritation.
- Restore movement: Targeted stretches for hips/hamstrings/lumbar spine to reduce pressure on the nerve.
- Strength & stability: Core and glute strengthening to support your spine and prevent recurrence.
- Posture & ergonomics: Desk and daily-activity adjustments to stop the cycle of irritation.
- Education & prevention: Home program progression, pacing strategies, and flare-up management.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If pain persists beyond a week, radiates below the knee, or affects daily life, book an assessment. Early care helps prevent long-term nerve irritation and speeds recovery.
Why Choose Wellspring Health & Wellness?
- Registered physiotherapists with spinal & nerve care expertise
- One-to-one, personalized treatment plans
- Convenient Hamilton & Stoney Creek location
- No referral required
- Direct billing to most insurance providers
👉 Learn more about our Physiotherapy services in Hamilton & Stoney Creek and how we treat sciatica safely and effectively.
Sciatica FAQs
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. You can book directly with a physiotherapist in Ontario.
How long does sciatica take to improve?
Many patients notice improvement within a few sessions; timelines vary based on cause, severity, and adherence to the plan.
Can exercises make sciatica worse?
Certain movements can aggravate symptoms. A tailored program ensures you progress safely without flaring the nerve.