Sciatica & nerve pain

Sciatica describes pain originating from irritation of the sciatic nerve, usually affecting one side of the body and travelling from the lower back into the buttock, leg, or foot.

More broadly, nerve pain can involve:

1. spinal nerve roots
2. peripheral nerves
3. increased nervous system sensitivity rather than ongoing damage

Nerve pain does not automatically mean serious injury or permanent damage.

Nerve-related symptoms may include:

1. sharp, shooting, or electric pain
2. burning or deep ache
3. pins and needles
4. numbness
5. heaviness or weakness
6. pain that travels rather than staying in one spot

Symptoms may fluctuate with:

1. sitting or driving
2. bending or lifting
3. walking or standing
4. stress or fatigue

Common contributors include:

1. disc irritation
2. joint stiffness in the spine or pelvis
3. muscular tension around nerve pathways
4. reduced movement variety
5. prolonged sitting or repetitive postures
6. flare-ups following sudden increases in load
7. nervous system sensitisation

Understanding what is driving your symptoms is the first step toward recovery

Treatment follows the RedGen 4-Step Rehabilitation Framework: Assess, Relieve, Restore and Optimise.

Your rehabilitation may include:

1. neurological screening and movement assessment
2. hands-on physiotherapy and spinal mobilisation
3. soft tissue work to reduce nerve sensitivity
4. acupuncture where appropriate
5. Class IV laser therapy when clinically indicated
6. RedGen Prime™ full-body photobiomodulation to support inflammation regulation and recovery where appropriate
7. early-stage movement and exercise rehabilitation to prevent deconditioning

The goal is controlled exposure to movement — not rest or avoidance.

Physiotherapy can help if:

1. pain is travelling into the leg or arm
2. symptoms are worsening or not settling
3. numbness or weakness is present
4. sitting, walking, or sleep are affected
5. you want reassurance and a clear plan

Early, calm management often leads to better outcomes.

Book a Nerve Pain Assessment if nerve pain is limiting your movement or confidence, RedGen Rehab can help restore control and comfort.