Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often resulting in sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. It can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain that affects walking, sitting, and sleep. At Newman Chiropractic in Sandhurst, we help patients from Camberley, Bracknell, and across Berkshire identify the exact source of their sciatic pain, providing targeted, personalised treatment to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore normal function.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is not a condition itself—it’s a symptom of an underlying issue. Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment.
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Herniated or Bulging Discs:
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One of the most common causes
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A disc in the lower spine bulges or ruptures, pressing on the sciatic nerve
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Often caused by lifting injuries, poor posture, or degeneration
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Spinal Misalignment (Subluxation):
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Misaligned vertebrae can narrow the space where nerves exit the spine
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Leads to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve
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Piriformis Syndrome:
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Tightness or spasm in the piriformis muscle (deep in the glutes)
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Compresses the sciatic nerve as it passes through or near the muscle
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Degenerative Changes:
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Arthritis or disc degeneration narrowing spinal spaces
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Bone spurs putting pressure on the nerve
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Postural & Lifestyle Factors:
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Prolonged sitting (desk jobs, driving)
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Poor lifting technique
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Weak core and glute muscles leading to instability
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Neurological & Functional Factors:
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Altered nerve signalling affecting muscle coordination
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Poor movement patterns increasing stress on the lower back
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Compensation from previous injuries
Why Choose Newman Chiropractic for Sciatica
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Specialist Functional Neurology approach for nerve-related pain
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Integrated chiropractic and physiotherapy care for faster, more complete recovery
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Focus on identifying and treating the root cause, not just symptoms
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Trusted by patients across Sandhurst, Camberley, Bracknell, and Berkshire
What is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from your lower back through your hips and down each leg. When this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can cause:
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Sharp, shooting pain down the leg
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Burning or tingling sensations
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Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot
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Pain that worsens when sitting, bending, or lifting
How We Diagnose Sciatica
At Newman Chiropractic, we focus on finding the exact source of your nerve irritation, not just treating symptoms.
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✅ Detailed History & Symptom Review – Understanding pain patterns, triggers, and lifestyle factors
✅ Postural & Spinal Assessment – Identifying misalignment and mechanical stress
✅ Functional Movement Screening – Assessing how your body moves and compensates
✅ Neurological Testing – Evaluating nerve function, strength, reflexes, and sensation
✅ Orthopaedic Testing – Pinpointing disc involvement or nerve compression
✅ Imaging Referral (if needed) – Access to nearby X-ray or MRI for complex cases
Targeted Treatment for Sciatica
Our treatment approach is designed to relieve nerve pressure, restore movement, and prevent recurrence.
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✅ Chiropractic Adjustments
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Realign the spine and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve
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Improve mobility and function
✅ Spinal & Pelvic Mobilisation
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Restore normal joint movement
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Reduce stiffness and mechanical stress
✅ Soft Tissue Therapy & Dry Needling
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Release tight muscles (especially glutes and lower back)
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Reduce inflammation around the nerve
✅ Functional Neurology Techniques
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Improve communication between the brain and muscles
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Enhance coordination, stability, and recovery
✅ Rehabilitation & Exercise Programmes
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Strengthen core and glutes to support the spine
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Correct movement patterns to reduce future strain
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Progress from pain relief → stability → performance
✅ Lifestyle & Ergonomic Advice
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Sitting posture and workstation setup
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Safe lifting techniques
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Daily movement strategies to protect your spine