SCIATICA
PAIN
Sciatica is pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve and radiates from the lower back through the buttock down the leg. At Dr. Verbitskiy v Mariboru, manual therapy often significantly reduces pressure on the nerve and eases the pain.
Sciatica is not an independent disease but a symptom of irritation of the sciatic nerve — the longest nerve in the body that runs from the lower spine through the buttock to the foot. When that nerve is compressed or irritated, pain often spreads along its path, making everyday movement, sitting and sleeping painful and difficult.
What causes irritation of the sciatic nerve
Sciatica most often occurs due to pressure on the nerve root in the lumbar spine, but can also result from tension in the buttock muscles. The most common causes are:
- 🔹 Herniated disc compressing the nerve root in the lumbar spine
- 🔹 Spinal stenosis — narrowing of the space for nerves in the spine
- 🔹 Piriformis syndrome — tension of a deep buttock muscle that presses on the nerve
- 🔹 Spondylolisthesis — vertebral slippage that narrows the space for the nerve
- 🔹 Prolonged sitting on a hard surface or sitting with a wallet in the back pocket
- 🔹 Pregnancy, due to increased pressure on the pelvis and spine
How to recognize sciatica
Pain from sciatica usually has a recognizable pattern that distinguishes it from general low back pain:
- 🔹 Sharp, burning, or electric pain radiating from the lower back down the back of the leg
- 🔹 Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or prolonged standing
- 🔹 Tingling or numbness in the leg, calf, or foot
- 🔹 Feeling of weakness in the leg or foot when walking
- 🔹 Pain usually affects only one side of the body
- 🔹 Relief with changing position or gentle movement
How we treat sciatica
The goal of treatment is to identify exactly where the nerve is being compressed and then use manual techniques to release tension and decompress the affected area.
1. Assessment of the cause
Clinical tests to determine whether the pain originates from the spine or the buttock muscle (piriformis).
2. Pressure relief
Targeted techniques to relax muscles and decompress the nerve root.
3. Exercises and prevention
Recommendations for stretching and strengthening that prevent recurrent irritation of the nerve.
Signs that require immediate attention
If, in addition to pain, there is sudden and marked leg weakness, inability to lift the foot ("foot drop"), loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the perineal area, seek emergency medical attention immediately — this may be a serious neurological condition requiring urgent treatment.
In all other cases, when the pain lasts longer than a week or recurs, we recommend an examination as soon as possible, since early treatment reduces the risk of the nerve irritation becoming chronic.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Frequently asked questions about sciatica
What is the difference between sciatica and low back pain?
Low back pain remains localized in the lumbar region, while sciatica radiates along the course of the sciatic nerve down the leg.
How long does it take for sciatica to subside?
Mild cases often improve within a few weeks, but with more pronounced nerve compression treatment may be required for several months.
Is walking good or bad for sciatica?
Moderate walking is often helpful, as it promotes circulation and does not stress the nerve like prolonged sitting.
Can sciatica resolve on its own?
Mild forms can improve spontaneously, but targeted treatment often speeds recovery and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Is an X-ray or MRI necessary for sciatica?
Not mandatory at the first visit, but imaging is useful if already available, as it helps confirm the cause of nerve compression.
Can sciatica recur?
Yes — therefore after acute pain settles we recommend strengthening and preventive exercises to avoid re-irritation of the nerve.
Contact us
For any questions or to book an appointment we are at your disposal.