Typically 6–8 visits over two months
Sciatica and hip pain
Pain in the buttock or hip, or a line of pain, tingling or numbness running down the back of the leg.
How we treat it
Sciatica is a description, not a diagnosis. It means pain along the path of the sciatic nerve, and it can come from a disc in the lower back, from a stiff sacroiliac joint, or from tight muscles deep in the buttock. Hip joint and tendon problems cause pain in the same area and are often mistaken for it.
That is why the assessment matters. We run the nerve tension tests, check reflexes and strength in the leg, and examine the hip itself, so the treatment goes where the problem is.
Nerve-related pain settles more slowly than joint or muscle pain — expect weeks rather than days — but most people improve steadily with treatment, nerve-gliding exercises and staying as active as the pain allows. If you are not improving as expected, we refer you for a scan and a specialist opinion.
Common signs
- Pain in the buttock that runs down the leg
- Tingling or numbness in the calf or foot
- Pain sitting for long periods or driving
- Aching at the side of the hip at night
See a doctor first if you have
- Numbness around the groin or saddle area
- Weakness that makes your foot slap or drag
- Sciatica in both legs at once
Call 999 or go to A&E for anything sudden and severe. For urgent advice, call 111.