Condition guide

Sciatica Physiotherapy

Assessment and rehabilitation for leg pain related to sciatic nerve irritation, with a focus on restoring mobility and function.

Sciatica can cause pain, tingling, or altered sensation from the lower back into the leg. Physiotherapy helps identify the source of irritation and guide recovery through staged rehabilitation.

This guide is general information and does not replace a clinical assessment.

When to get urgent help

Go to A&E or call 999 for new bladder or bowel problems, loss of sensation around your genitals or bottom, or severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs. Do not wait for a physiotherapy appointment.

NHS: Sciatica

Book an appointment 020 7511 3550

Common Symptoms

Pain that travels from the lower back into the buttock or leg

Pins and needles or numbness in part of the leg or foot

Pain with sitting, bending, coughing, or prolonged standing

Leg weakness or reduced tolerance for walking

Seek Prompt Medical Advice If You Have

New bowel or bladder disturbance

Numbness around the saddle region

Progressive or severe leg weakness

Symptoms that worsen rapidly despite rest

If you are unsure, call NHS 111 or seek urgent medical care.

Assessment

Detailed review of pain pattern, onset, and aggravating movements

Nerve tension and neurological screening

Movement and strength testing to identify functional deficits

Clear explanation of findings and treatment priorities

Treatment

Symptom-calming strategies and movement modification

Targeted exercises to improve nerve mobility and control

Strength work for trunk, hip, and lower limb support

Return-to-activity progression based on symptom response

Aftercare & self-management

At your appointment, agree which exercises to do, how often to practise them and when to review your progress.

Avoid long periods in one position where possible

Use regular movement breaks and prescribed exercises

Progress walking and activity gradually

Monitor symptoms and report any neurological changes promptly

Plan your visitClinic, prices, insurance and home visits

Your clinic & directions: Newham clinic, Plaistow
Newham Leisure Centre, 281 Prince Regent Lane, Plaistow, London E13 8SD
Self-pay: £60 for a 30-minute physiotherapy appointment.
Prices & self-pay
Health insurance: Cover depends on your plan and chosen physiotherapist.
Insurance & cash-plan guidance

Would a home visit suit you better?

If getting to the clinic is difficult, explore physiotherapy at your visit address. Suitability depends on your condition, care needs, travel and the available clinician; the clinic price and insurance arrangements above do not automatically apply to home treatment.

Explore relevant home care Check home-visit options

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sciatica the same as back pain?+

Sciatica usually includes nerve-related leg symptoms in addition to back pain. Assessment identifies whether the sciatic nerve is involved.

Can physiotherapy help sciatica?+

Physiotherapy can help by reducing nerve irritation, restoring movement, and improving tolerance for daily activity.

Which sciatica symptoms need emergency care?+

Go to A&E or call 999 for sciatica affecting both sides, severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs, numbness around the genitals or bottom, or new bladder or bowel changes. These changes include difficulty starting or passing urine, loss of control, or not noticing when you need to pass stool. Do not wait for a routine GP or physiotherapy appointment.