Sciatica / Nerve Impingement

What is Sciatica / Nerve Impingement?

Sciatica is a condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. This nerve starts in the lower back (lumbar spine), passes through the hips and buttocks, and travels down each leg.

Nerve impingement (also called a pinched nerve) occurs when surrounding structures—such as a bulging disc, bone, muscle, or ligament—put pressure on a nerve. When this pressure affects the sciatic nerve, it results in sciatica.

Symptoms of Sciatica / Nerve Impingement

Symptoms can vary in intensity and may affect one side of the body.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, burning, or shooting pain from the lower back down the leg

• Pain that worsens with sitting, standing too long, or sudden movement

• Numbness or tingling in the buttock, leg, or foot

• Muscle weakness in the leg or foot

• Difficulty walking, standing, or bending

• Electric-shock–like sensations along the nerve path

Causes of Sciatica / Nerve Impingement

Sciatica is usually caused by conditions that compress or irritate the nerve.

Common causes include:

• Herniated or bulging disc pressing on the nerve

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)

• Degenerative disc disease due to aging

• Bone spurs on the spine

• Piriformis syndrome (tight muscle compressing the sciatic nerve)

• Poor posture or prolonged sitting

• Injury, trauma, or improper lifting

• Obesity or pregnancy, which increases spinal pressure

What Happens If Sciatica / Nerve Impingement Is Ignored?

Ignoring sciatica or nerve impingement can lead to worsening and long-term complications.

Possible consequences include:

• Chronic and persistent pain

• Progressive nerve damage

• Permanent numbness or weakness in the leg or foot

• Loss of mobility and reduced quality of life

• Muscle wasting due to nerve dysfunction

• In severe cases, loss of bowel or bladder control (medical emergency)

Early treatment helps reduce pain, prevent nerve damage, and improve recovery outcomes.

We are a trusted chiropractic and physiotherapy centre specializing in non-surgical, evidence-based treatment for spine, joint, and muscle conditions. Our team provides customized care for back pain, slipped disc, sciatica, posture correction, and injury rehabilitation.

We focus on natural healing — without drugs or surgery — by addressing the root cause of pain, helping clients move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free. Please contact us if you wish to know more about Sciatica / Nerve Impingement and the treatments we offer.