Sciatica can present in different ways depending on the level of nerve irritation. Common symptoms include:

• Pain radiating from the lower back into the buttock and leg

• Sharp, shooting or burning pain in the leg

• Tingling or pins and needles

• Numbness in parts of the leg or foot

• Weakness in the leg in some cases

• Pain that worsens with sitting or certain movements

Symptoms often follow a path down one side of the body and may vary in intensity.

Sciatica is usually linked to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve.

Common contributing factors include:

• Disc irritation or bulging in the lower back

• Joint restriction in the spine

• Muscle tightness affecting the nerve pathway

• Prolonged sitting or driving

• Sudden increases in activity or strain

• Reduced strength or conditioning

These factors can place pressure on the nerve or affect how it moves, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.

These are some of the most common patterns people experience:

Why is sciatica worse when sitting?
Sitting can increase pressure on the lower back and discs, which may aggravate the sciatic nerve.

Why does sciatica cause leg pain?
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back into the leg, so irritation along this pathway can cause pain to travel down the leg.

Why does sciatica feel like tingling or numbness?
Nerve irritation can affect how signals are transmitted, leading to sensations such as tingling, numbness or pins and needles.

Why does sciatica keep coming back?
Recurring sciatica may be linked to ongoing factors such as posture, movement patterns, strength or lifestyle habits that have not been fully addressed.

Some cases of sciatica improve over time, particularly with appropriate movement and activity.

However, symptoms can persist or return if contributing factors are not addressed. Recovery may vary depending on the level of nerve involvement and individual circumstances.

Staying gently active is often more beneficial than prolonged rest, which may increase stiffness and reduce overall function.

At your first appointment, you will receive a structured assessment to understand what may be contributing to your symptoms.

This typically includes:

• A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history

• Assessment of movement, posture and spinal function

• Neurological assessment where appropriate

• Identification of lifestyle, work or activity-related factors

You will be given a clear explanation of findings and a plan tailored to your situation.

Where appropriate, management may include hands-on techniques, movement advice and a simple exercise plan to support recovery and improve function.

Osteopathy addresses sciatica by looking at the whole picture — not just where the pain is felt, but what may be causing the nerve to become irritated in the first place. This typically involves assessing the lower back, pelvis, hips and surrounding muscles to identify what is placing pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Treatment is hands-on and tailored to your assessment findings. It may include:

• Joint mobilisation techniques to reduce pressure on the nerve

• Soft tissue work to release muscle tension around the nerve pathway

• Dry needling where appropriate

• Movement and postural advice to reduce aggravating factors

• Specific exercises to support recovery and build resilience

The aim is to reduce symptoms in the short term while addressing the underlying factors that led to the nerve irritation — reducing the likelihood of it recurring.

While many cases of sciatica are not serious, urgent medical attention should be sought if you experience:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Numbness in the groin or inner thighs

• Progressive weakness in the leg

• Severe or worsening neurological symptoms

• Pain following significant trauma

• Constant or worsening pain, especially at night

What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is commonly caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often linked to disc issues, joint restriction or muscle tension.

Can sciatica go away on its own?
Some cases improve over time, although symptoms may persist or return if underlying factors are not addressed.

When should I see an osteopath for sciatica?
You may consider an assessment if symptoms persist, worsen, or begin to affect daily activities such as walking, sitting or sleeping.

Can an osteopath help with sciatica?

Yes. Osteopaths are trained to assess and manage sciatica. Treatment focuses on identifying what is irritating the sciatic nerve and addressing the contributing factors through hands-on techniques, movement advice and tailored exercises.

How long does sciatica last?

This varies depending on the cause and severity. Many cases improve within a few weeks with appropriate management. However, symptoms can persist if contributing factors are not addressed. Your osteopath will give you a realistic timeframe following assessment.

If you would like to understand what may be contributing to your sciatica and how to manage it, you can book an appointment online or contact the clinic directly.

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An assessment can help identify contributing factors and provide a clear plan to support recovery and improve day-to-day function.

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You can also explore the full range of conditions we assess and manage here.​

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This page has been written and reviewed by our GOsC-registered osteopaths at Coventry Osteopathic & Sports Injury Clinic.