Sciatica
Sciatica — pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg — can be debilitating. Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments, helping to reduce nerve irritation, restore movement, and get you back to normal life.
With Naveen Ramakrishnan (MCSP HCPC) — Chartered Physiotherapist
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica describes pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of the leg. It is usually caused by compression or irritation of a nerve root in the lumbar spine, often from a disc bulge or herniation. However, there are other causes of leg pain that can mimic sciatica, which is why accurate assessment is so important. True sciatica typically affects one leg and may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Physiotherapy for Sciatica
The management of sciatica has evolved significantly in recent years. Research now supports an active approach — staying mobile, using specific exercises to reduce nerve irritation, and gradually returning to normal activities. I use directional preference exercises (such as the McKenzie approach) to identify movements that centralise and reduce your symptoms. Combined with nerve mobilisation techniques, manual therapy, and education, most people with sciatica experience significant improvement within weeks without needing injections or surgery.
Common Symptoms
- Pain radiating from the lower back into the leg
- Shooting or burning sensation down the buttock and leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
How I Treat It
- Directional preference exercises (McKenzie Method)
- Nerve mobilisation and gliding techniques
- Spinal joint mobilisation
- Core stability and lumbar strengthening
- Education on pain science and recovery
- Graduated return to activity programme
What to Expect
- Detailed spinal and neurological assessment
- Identification of movements that help your symptoms
- Specific exercises to reduce nerve irritation
- Hands-on treatment where appropriate
- Clear explanation of your diagnosis and prognosis
- Progressive programme to restore full function
Ready to Get Help?
Book an initial assessment and take the first step towards recovery. Available as a home visit across Liverpool and Merseyside, or via online consultation.
Book AppointmentBased in Liverpool?
See how sciatica is treated locally — home visits across Liverpool and Merseyside.
Sciatica treatment in Liverpool →Related Conditions
Get in Touch
Not sure if physiotherapy is right for you? I am happy to have a quick chat to discuss your condition.
Sciatica: common questions
A home visit is £90 and an online consultation is £60, both for a full hour. That is the whole cost — no assessment surcharge, no travel fee, and no obligation to book a block of sessions up front.
Yes. Home visits cover Liverpool, Merseyside, Wirral, Warrington and Knowsley, and I bring the equipment needed for assessment and hands-on treatment. Being seen at home also lets me look at the stairs, chair, bed or workstation that may be feeding the problem.
It varies with the cause and how long it has been going on. Many people with a straightforward presentation improve within four to six sessions, while longer-standing or more complex problems take longer. You will get an honest estimate after your first assessment, including if I think you would be better served by another professional.
No. Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly. If your assessment suggests something that needs a GP, a scan or an onward referral, I will tell you and put that in writing for you to take to them.
Ready to Get Started?
Book your initial assessment today and take the first step towards recovery.