Sciatica Treatment in Sydney CBD
Targeted sciatica physiotherapy aims to improve mobility and reduce pain so daily activities feel more manageable and controlled.
Sciatica Physiotherapy that focuses on your goals
Effective, personalised treatment plans to address the root cause of your sciatic nerve pain
Sciatica describes pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, running from the lower back through the hips and down each leg.
Sciatica often impacts work, sleep, exercise, and simple daily tasks. Pain may feel sharp, dull, or tight and can sit in one area or spread into the hips and legs. Many people change how they sit, stand, or walk because of this discomfort. These compensatory movements often load other joints and muscles, creating new issues over time. Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat these musculoskeletal conditions that affect physical function.
Effective management requires a detailed assessment of the spine, muscles, joints, and movement patterns. Treatment often includes gentle manual therapy, specific exercises, and education about posture and activity habits.
We provide clear guidance to help patients understand what is safe and how to pace activity. This approach ensures you remain as active as your condition allows during recovery.
Without proper intervention, sciatic pain can become persistent. Ongoing discomfort may lead to reduced activity, loss of strength, and fear of movement. Early, active management with physiotherapy is often part of a broader care plan.
Your session will include diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and education for the prevention of future injuries. A variety of manual therapy techniques are administered using a hands-on approach combined with an exercise prescription program.
Conditions we can help you with
Acute sciatic nerve pain
Degenerative disc disease
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Pregnancy-related sciatica
Muscle spasms in the lower back or buttocks
Lumbar disc herniation
Piriformis syndrome
Spondylolisthesis
Cauda Equina Syndrome
Spinal stenosis
Lumbar radiculopathy
Lumbar facet joint irritation
Osteoarthritis
Common Sciatica Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the individual and the root cause of the nerve compression. Some patients report a dull ache, while others describe an electric shock sensation. Pain often fluctuates based on position or activity levels. Specific movements like bending forward or prolonged sitting may intensify the feeling. Reduced reflexes in the lower limb are also common.
Common symptoms associated with back pain include:
Sharp, shooting pain down the back of the leg
Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes
Weakness in the calf or thigh muscles
Burning sensation in the gluteal region
Constant pain on one side of the rear
Difficulty standing up due to shooting pain
Pins and needles sensation along the leg
Pain or discomfort when coughing or sneezing
Our Core values
Leaders in Our Field
All of our health practitioners undertake regular seminars, courses, and lectures to remain at the forefront of new technologies, principals, and therapy techniques which emerge in our field of practice.
Professionalism
Teamwork
Dedication to Learning
1. Lifetime learning
2. Learning new ideas to better ourselves
3. Being resourceful through seeking answers and solutions to challenges and complex cases
Excellence
The Physico City difference
Experience
We have been practicing in the Sydney CBD for over 15 years and have the experience and professionalism to cater to your injury. With a number of Physiotherapists from various backgrounds and specialties we can find your solution. This is our passion and we love the challenge!
Results
Our clients create meaningful changes in their lives, feel happier being pain free and being able to participate in activities again. We teach you how to manage your injury so you can perform at your best.
Value
Access
Open 6 days a week from 8am- 6:30pm. We are located next to Gadigal Station on Bathurst Street.
Testimonials
“I have found PhysiCo City to be very professional, pragmatic and friendly. They got to the root of the issue early on, and I was given helpful advice for my rehabiliation journey which wasnt too onerous. I highly recommend Aditi and the team there.”
As a Bupa member, the claiming process was simple—I just needed to show my membership card. Overall, a smooth and positive experience.
Award Winning Care & Service
#1 The Quality Business Awards 2025
Best Physiotherapy Clinic in NSW for 2024
#4 Sydney’s Best Physiotherapist
Excellence in Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Achievement
Excellence in Allied Health Practice
FAQs
How long does sciatica take to heal with physiotherapy?
Recovery time varies depending on the cause and severity of your sciatica. Many people notice improvement within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent physiotherapy treatment.
Chronic cases may require longer management.
After your initial individual assessment, your physiotherapist can provide a more realistic timeline.
Can I exercise with sciatica?
Specific exercises often form a key part of sciatica treatment. Your physiotherapist will prescribe appropriate movements that reduce nerve irritation and strengthen supporting muscles.
Some activities may need modification or temporary avoidance during the acute phase. If you have specific exercises or movements you need to perform regularly, please raise this in your initial appointment and we can provide methods to ease or reduce pain and provide a clearer timeline when those exercises can resume.
What's the difference between sciatica and general back pain?
Sciatica specifically involves the sciatic nerve and causes pain in the buttock and leg region. General back pain typically stays localised to the back region. Sciatica can often includes numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg, which distinguishes it from other back conditions.
Should I use heat or ice for sciatica?
Ice (first 48 to 72 hours): Ice works best during the initial phase of a sciatica flare. It acts as a temporary numbing agent that blocks superficial pain fibres and reduces discomfort. Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables in a cloth to protect your skin, then apply it to your lower back for 20 to 30 minutes, two to three times daily. (Goodman Campbell Brain & Spine, Desert Institute for Spine Care)
Heat (after 72 hours): Once the worst pain has subsided, heat can help relieve stiffness by relaxing the lower back muscles and increasing blood flow to address residual tightness. (Plunge, Woman’s World)
Your physiotherapist can advise which approach suits your specific situation.
Is sciatica serious?
Some sciatica cases can be resolved with appropriate treatment and do not indicate serious underlying conditions. However, symptoms such as progressive weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in both legs require immediate medical attention and may lead to chronic long term pain.
Can sitting at a desk cause sciatica?
Prolonged sitting places pressure on the lumbar spine and can contribute to disc problems or muscle tightness that irritates the sciatic nerve. Ergonomic adjustments, proper seating and regular movement breaks help reduce this risk, especially for many Sydney CBD office workers.
Do I need a scan for sciatica?
Most sciatica cases can be diagnosed through a physical examination without imaging. Your physiotherapist may recommend a scan if symptoms persist despite treatment or if specific findings suggest further investigation is needed.
Covered by Health Insurance
Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with a Sydney physiotherapist to assess your back, discuss your goals, and create a personalised management plan.
On the spot Medicare & private health insurance rebates available
Highly experienced team available 6 days a week
Located in Sydney CBD, next to the Gadigal Metro Station.
