When sciatica occurs, the numbness and weakness can often be worse than the pain. If the sciatic nerve gets trapped, as it exits the spine, the first thing to happen is pain as the nerve itself gets inflamed. If the compression on the nerve continues then you may experience tingling, pins and needles and eventually numbness and reduced movement into the muscles of the leg.

It can also be common to not even experience pain in the back. If the compression is not relieved urgently, this can cause permanent problems. Often, however, sciatica and disc bulges are misdiagnosed.

Reviews and studies have revealed that manual therapy shows moderately positive evidence in that manipulation is helpful for sciatica. The most important thing for a quick and complete recovery is to stay as active as you can. It is important to have a strong core and do appropriate exercises that strengthen the core stability: trunk muscles and the small muscles in between the vertebrae themselves. This reduces the mechanical strain on the discs and joints and not only helps with recovery but also preventing it happen again.

After completing a full medical history and examination, Dr Baillie will perform relevant orthopaedic tests to ascertain the cause of the sciatic pain.

Treatment will begin with gentle specific adjustments (chiropractic word for manipulation) performed by hand to free stiff joints and remove spinal nerve irritation. Dr Baillie May also use other Soft Tissue Massage techniques, when necessary.