Sciatica is one of the most common causes of leg pain treated at JMK Osteopathy. It's caused by irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. When compressed or irritated, it can cause:

• Sharp or burning pain in the lower back, buttock, or leg

• Tingling, numbness, or pins and needles down the leg

• Weakness or difficulty moving the affected leg or foot

• Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing, or bending

Sciatica is an umbrella term for pain running down the back of the leg and is often linked to disc herniation (often called a slipped disc), spinal degeneration, piriformis syndrome, muscle tension, or postural problems.

Is osteopathy effective for sciatica?

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends manual therapy, including spinal manipulation, mobilisation, and soft tissue techniques such as massage, for managing low back pain with or without sciatica. These are the core techniques used in osteopathic treatment.

How osteopathy helps sciatica

Josh Kelsall, a GOsC-registered osteopath based in Sheffield, takes a gentle, whole-body approach to treating sciatica. Rather than just targeting symptoms, treatment addresses the underlying cause to support recovery and reduce the risk of sciatica returning.

Treatment at JMK Osteopathy may include:

• Relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve

• Improving movement in the spine and pelvis

• Releasing tight muscles in the lower back and hips

• Supporting better posture to reduce strain on the spine

• Advice on exercises and lifestyle changes to prevent flare-ups

When to seek help for sciatica

If your sciatica has lasted more than a few days, is interfering with sleep or daily activities, or is preventing you from working, it's worth seeking professional assessment. Early treatment usually means a faster recovery and a lower chance of the problem becoming chronic.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden weakness in both legs, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the saddle area — these can be signs of a rare but serious condition called cauda equina syndrome.

Sciatica treatment in Beauchief & Todwick

Josh treats patients with sciatica from across Sheffield and the surrounding areas, including Rotherham, Dronfield, Mosborough, and Chesterfield, from clinics in Beauchief (S8) and Todwick (S26).

Struggling with sciatica in Sheffield? Book an appointment with Josh today and take the first step towards lasting relief.