What Is the Cause of Sciatica Pain?
Sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. The cause of the compression determines the best treatment approach.
★★★★★ 5.0 from 70+ Google Reviews
GCC Registered · NHS Recognised
Same-Day Appointments Available
No Hidden Fees · No Contracts
The Most Common Causes of Sciatic Nerve Pain
Disc Herniation
The most common cause. A disc herniation at L4/L5 or L5/S1 presses directly on the sciatic nerve root, causing pain, numbness, and weakness radiating into the leg.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle in the buttock sits close to the sciatic nerve. When tight or in spasm, it compresses the nerve, causing deep buttock pain and leg symptoms. Often missed by standard assessment.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve exit points due to degenerative changes. Causes leg pain that worsens with walking and improves with sitting.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The SI joint where the spine meets the pelvis can refer pain into the buttock and down the leg, mimicking sciatica. Often linked to hip pain and lower back pain.
Zone Technique Assessment at Chiropractor Norwich
The Zone Technique assessment at Chiropractor Norwich identifies not only the mechanical cause of nerve compression but also which body systems are amplifying the nerve irritation.
Full Neurological Assessment
Nerve tension tests, reflex testing, dermatomal sensory testing, and myotomal muscle testing to identify the exact nerve root involved.
Zone Technique Evaluation
Assessment of all six body systems to identify glandular, circulatory, and nervous system contributors to nerve irritation beyond the mechanical compression.
Mechanical Diagnosis
Spinal and pelvic examination to identify disc herniation, joint restriction, piriformis tension, or SI joint dysfunction.
Targeted Treatment
Treatment is directed at both the mechanical cause and the system-level contributors identified by the Zone assessment.
What Our Patients Say
"Dr Luke has helped me massively with lower back pain and headaches over the years. He is thorough and explains everything clearly. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a chiropractor in Norwich!"
"I have suffered with severe lower back pain and numbness in my right quad for 9 years following a bad car accident. After just 1 session I feel so much better. Would recommend to anyone."
"Since learning about the Zone Technique at Chiropractor Norwich, it has changed my life. I have finally found someone who understood my issues and can actually help me."
Why Patients Choose Us
- Doctor of Chiropractic, fully qualified
- GCC Registered, NHS Recognised
- Only Zone Technique clinic in Norfolk
- 10+ years clinical experience
- 5.0 stars from 70 Google reviews
- Same-day appointments available
- Two locations: Norwich and Great Yarmouth
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common cause is disc herniation at L4/L5 or L5/S1, pressing directly on the sciatic nerve root. Other causes include piriformis syndrome, spinal stenosis, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
At Chiropractor Norwich, a full neurological assessment combined with Zone Technique evaluation and spinal examination identifies the exact cause. Different causes require different treatment approaches.
Yes. Piriformis syndrome mimics disc-related sciatica almost exactly. The piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve as it passes through the buttock. This is often missed by standard assessment methods.
No. Book directly online or call 07904 184524. Same-day appointments are often available.
Find Out What Is Causing Your Sciatica
Book your sciatica assessment at Chiropractor Norwich. £65 includes Zone Technique evaluation, neurological testing, and targeted treatment on the same visit.