Sciatica Treatment in Oshawa

Therapist treating a patient with lower back and leg pain

What is sciatica?

Sciatica describes pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve — the body’s largest nerve — which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It’s usually a symptom of an underlying problem irritating or compressing the nerve, rather than a diagnosis on its own.

The good news is that most sciatica responds very well to conservative physiotherapy, without surgery. We identify what’s irritating the nerve and treat the cause so the pain settles and stays away.

Common causes of sciatica

A bulging or herniated disc pressing on the nerve
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
Piriformis muscle tightness in the buttock
Degenerative changes in the spine
Prolonged sitting and poor posture

Symptoms we treat

Pain radiating from the lower back into the buttock and leg
Sharp, burning or electric-shock-like pain
Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
Symptoms usually on one side of the body
Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting

How we treat sciatica in Oshawa

Your plan targets the source of the nerve irritation and may include:

Hands-on manual therapy to reduce nerve irritation
Nerve-gliding and mobility exercises
Targeted core and hip strengthening
Directional (McKenzie-style) exercises where appropriate
Posture and movement education to prevent flare-ups

Care is led by our physiotherapy and chiropractic teams.

What to expect

Most sciatica improves steadily with the right treatment and exercises. Staying gently active usually beats bed rest. If you develop severe weakness, or any changes in bladder or bowel control, seek care urgently — we screen for these ‘red flags’ during your assessment.

Manual TherapyNerve GlidingCore RehabPosture

Frequently asked questions about sciatica

Many cases improve within a few weeks with the right treatment, though it varies with the cause and severity. A structured plan of hands-on care and exercise gives the best and fastest results.

Gentle movement is usually better than bed rest. Prolonged rest can stiffen the back and slow recovery. Your physiotherapist will show you safe movements and which positions to avoid.

Usually not. Most sciatica is diagnosed through a physical assessment. Imaging is reserved for specific situations, which we screen for during your visit.

In the large majority of cases, yes. Conservative care resolves most sciatica without surgery, and can also support recovery if surgery is ever needed.

Physiotherapy, chiropractic and massage therapy for this condition are covered by most extended-health plans, and we direct bill. We also handle motor vehicle accident (MVA) and WSIB claims.