Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — the longest nerve in your body — which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. The pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation, or even feel like a jolt or electric shock.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica most commonly occurs when a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compresses part of the sciatic nerve. This causes inflammation, pain, and often numbness in the affected leg. While the pain associated with sciatica can be severe, most cases resolve with conservative, non-operative treatment within a few weeks.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain from the lower back down through the buttock and leg
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower leg or foot
- Pain that worsens when sitting, standing for long periods, or sneezing
- Difficulty moving or controlling the leg
- Pain typically affects one side of the body
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
Common Causes
- Herniated or bulging lumbar disc pressing on the nerve root
- Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Piriformis syndrome (muscle spasm compressing the nerve)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
- Prolonged sitting or sedentary lifestyle
- Pregnancy-related pelvic changes
Treatments at Woodbridge Rehabilitation Centre
Our multidisciplinary team creates a personalized treatment plan based on your specific presentation, health history, and goals. The following therapies may be recommended individually or in combination.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Spinal manipulation reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve root by restoring proper alignment and joint mobility in the lumbar spine. Dr. Joseph S. Oliva and Dr. Marie Del Frate perform thorough orthopedic assessments to identify the exact vertebral segments involved before treatment begins.
Physiotherapy
Our physiotherapists design individualized programs including core strengthening, nerve mobilization exercises, and postural correction to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and prevent recurrence.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture helps modulate pain signals and reduce inflammation around the irritated nerve, often providing significant relief in patients who have not responded to other therapies alone.
Therapeutic Modalities
Interferential current (IFC), TENS, and ultrasound therapy reduce acute inflammation and muscle spasm around the sciatic nerve pathway.
Softwave Therapy
Our exclusive Softwave Technology uses electrohydraulic shockwaves to penetrate deep tissue, promoting nerve healing, reducing inflammation, and stimulating cellular regeneration along the sciatic nerve pathway.
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Book an assessment at Woodbridge Rehabilitation Centre in Vaughan, ON. Our team will evaluate your condition and design a personalized treatment plan.
Book Online Now Call 905-856-4444