Sciatica can be frightening.
Sharp leg pain, burning sensations, pins and needles or weakness can make everyday movements feel risky and unpredictable. Many people worry they’ve “damaged something” or need urgent scans or injections.
The good news is that physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for sciatica, and most people improve without surgery or invasive procedures.
At Light Joints Physiotherapy, we help patients across Leeds and Bradford recover from sciatica with clear diagnosis, reassurance, and targeted rehabilitation.
🔍 What is sciatica?
Sciatica describes pain caused by irritation or sensitivity of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg.
Symptoms may include:
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pain travelling into the leg
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burning or electric-like pain
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pins and needles or numbness
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pain worse with sitting, bending or coughing
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weakness in more severe cases
Sciatica is a symptom pattern, not a diagnosis on its own.
⚠️ What causes sciatica?
Common causes include:
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disc irritation or bulge
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disc herniation
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nerve sensitivity after lifting or twisting
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spinal joint stiffness
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muscle tension affecting nerve movement
Importantly, not all sciatica means a “slipped disc”, and most cases settle with the right approach.
🧠 Why physiotherapy works for sciatica
Physiotherapy doesn’t just treat symptoms, it addresses the underlying drivers of nerve irritation.
Your physiotherapy programme may include:
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movement strategies to reduce nerve sensitivity
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gentle nerve mobility exercises
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progressive strengthening of hips and core
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advice on sitting, lifting and daily activities
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gradual return to normal movement and exercise
The aim is to:
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calm the nerve
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restore confidence in movement
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prevent recurrence
Avoiding movement or resting for long periods often slows recovery.
🧭 Do I need a scan before physiotherapy?
In most cases, no.
Scans are not routinely needed for sciatica and are only recommended if:
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symptoms are worsening
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significant weakness is present
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pain is not improving over time
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red flag symptoms appear
At Light Joints Physiotherapy, we will:
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assess whether imaging is appropriate
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explain ultrasound vs MRI clearly
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guide NHS or private pathways if needed
We avoid unnecessary scans.
💉 Where do steroid injections fit in?
Steroid injections are not first-line treatment for sciatica.
They may be considered when:
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pain is severe and persistent
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sleep and daily function are significantly affected
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physiotherapy progress is blocked by pain
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nerve inflammation is suspected
Injections aim to reduce inflammation, allowing physiotherapy to progress more effectively.
When used, injections are always combined with rehabilitation, not used in isolation.
⏳ How long does sciatica take to improve?
Recovery timelines vary, but many people improve within:
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a few weeks with the right guidance
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gradual reduction in leg pain before back pain fully settles
Early reassurance, appropriate movement and a clear plan often speed recovery.
🚨 When sciatica needs urgent medical attention
Seek urgent help if you experience:
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loss of bladder or bowel control
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numbness around the groin or saddle area
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rapidly worsening weakness in the leg
These symptoms are rare but require immediate assessment.
📍 Physiotherapy for sciatica in Leeds & Bradford
We treat sciatica at our clinics in:
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Rothwell, Leeds
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Colton, Leeds
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Greengates, Bradford
You do not need a GP referral to book.
Appointments are available quickly, and we’ll explain your options clearly.