Do You Feel a Sharp Pain Running Down Your Leg While Walking? It Might Be Sciatica!

Do you experience a shooting pain that radiates from your lower back to your buttock and down your leg—especially when walking or standing for long? If yes, you could be dealing with a condition called sciatica.

Let’s explore what sciatica is, its common causes, precautions, and how physiotherapy can help relieve the pain and restore your function.


What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is not a diagnosis but a symptom. It refers to pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, which travels from your lower spine, through the buttocks, and down the back of each leg.

The pain typically affects one side of the body and may range from mild to severe. Some people also experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the affected leg.

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Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatic pain occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. Some of the most common causes include:

Herniated or slipped disc
Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of spinal canal)
Piriformis syndrome
Degenerative disc disease
Injury or trauma to the lower back

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Signs and Symptoms

Sharp, burning, or shooting pain from back to leg
Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot
Increased pain while walking, bending, or sitting
Pain relief when lying down or walking on a flat surface

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Precautions to Avoid Worsening Sciatica

1. Avoid prolonged sitting – Use an ergonomic chair and stand up every 30–45 minutes.
2. Don’t lift heavy objects improperly – Always bend your knees, not your back.
3. Avoid high-impact activities – Running, jumping, or twisting can aggravate symptoms.
4. Sleep in the right position – Use a pillow under your knees if sleeping on your back.
5. Maintain good posture – Slouching puts pressure on your lower back.

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How Physiotherapy Can Help Sciatica

Physiotherapy is a proven and effective treatment for sciatica. It not only helps relieve pain but also improves function, posture, and muscle control to prevent recurrence.

Key Physiotherapy Goals:

Reduce nerve compression
Improve spinal alignment and flexibility
Strengthen the core and postural muscles
Promote healing and prevent flare-ups

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Physiotherapy Treatment Plan

1. Pain Management

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
Heat therapy or cold packs
Ultrasound therapy to reduce deep tissue inflammation

2. Manual Therapy

Soft tissue mobilization
Neural mobilization techniques for the sciatic nerve
Joint mobilization to improve lumbar spine mechanics

3. Exercise Therapy

McKenzie exercises for disc-related pain
Core stabilization exercises
Stretching of hamstrings, glutes, and piriformis
Strength training for lower back and abdominal muscles

4. Postural and Ergonomic Training

Education on lifting, sitting, and daily movement patterns
Workspace setup guidance (for office workers)

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How Long Does It Take to Recover?

With proper physiotherapy and lifestyle changes, many people recover from sciatica within 4–6 weeks. Chronic cases may take longer, but consistent rehab leads to long-term improvement.

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When to See a Physiotherapist Immediately

If you feel severe leg weakness
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Pain is worsening despite rest and medication

These could be signs of cauda equina syndrome — a medical emergency.

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Final Thoughts

Sciatica can be painful and limiting, but it’s very treatable. If you’re feeling sharp leg pain, numbness, or discomfort while walking, don’t ignore it. Early diagnosis and a tailored physiotherapy program can help you recover safely and effectively — without surgery.

Don’t wait for the pain to control your life — consult a qualified physiotherapist and start your journey toward a pain-free lifestyle!

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