What causes it
Sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve, or one of the nerve roots that form it, is irritated or compressed.
- A disc bulge pressing on a nerve root
- Narrowing of the spaces where nerves leave the spine
- Tight muscles in the buttock, sometimes called piriformis syndrome
- Prolonged sitting and reduced movement
Common symptoms
Sciatica usually affects one leg.
- Pain from the buttock down the back of the leg
- Burning, shooting or electric sensations
- Pins and needles or numbness in the leg or foot
- Pain worse with sitting, coughing or bending
- Leg pain that is worse than back pain
How we assess it
Your first appointment is a full physiotherapy assessment in our Umm Suqeim clinic. We take a detailed history, examine posture and movement, test strength, flexibility and joint mobility, and carry out specific clinical tests. We also screen for signs that need a doctor's review or imaging. You leave with a clear explanation and a personalised plan. We also test nerve function, including sensation, reflexes and strength, to check how the nerve is affected.
How we treat it
Treatment aims to settle the irritated nerve and keep you moving. Manual therapy can ease stiffness and muscle tension in the back and hips, dry needling can target tight gluteal muscles, and Electrons Plus PEMF can be directed to the area. We teach positions and movements that ease symptoms and progress you through exercises to rebuild strength and confidence.
Treatments we use
- Manual Therapy and Massage for sciaticaHands-on joint mobilisation and soft tissue work to ease pain and restore movement.
- Dry Needling for sciaticaFine-needle treatment of muscle trigger points in the neck, traps, back and shoulders.
- Electrons Plus PEMF Therapy for sciaticaThe first clinic in Dubai with the Electrons Plus 1: practitioner-guided PEMF.
When to seek help
Book an assessment if leg pain lasts more than a week or is getting worse. Seek urgent medical care if you have numbness around the groin or buttocks, new problems controlling your bladder or bowel, or weakness in both legs, as these need immediate assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How long does sciatica last?
Many cases improve within six to twelve weeks. Physiotherapy can help manage symptoms and support recovery.
Should I rest with sciatica?
Gentle movement is usually better than bed rest. We show you positions and movements that ease symptoms.
Do I need a scan?
Most sciatica does not need imaging at first. We refer you if your symptoms or assessment suggest it.
Can sitting make sciatica worse?
Yes, long periods of sitting often aggravate symptoms. Regular breaks and position changes can help.
Is sciatica the same as back pain?
Not exactly. Sciatica describes nerve-related leg pain, which may or may not come with back pain.
Book your assessment in Umm Suqeim
Message our team on WhatsApp and we will confirm the next available appointment at Limitless 7 Clinic.
Book on WhatsAppThis information is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical assessment. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient following a consultation with our licensed practitioners.