Back Pain
Sciatica: what helps and what doesn't
Evidence-based strategies for sciatica that move the needle — and the common myths that waste your time.
What sciatica actually is
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, often extending from the lower back into the buttock and leg. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The good news: 70–90% of cases resolve within 6–12 weeks with the right approach.
What helps
Maintaining activity. Walking regularly. Targeted exercise. Physiotherapy-guided rehabilitation including nerve gliding techniques. Improving overall strength and mobility. Education — understanding that pain does not equal damage reduces fear and improves outcomes.
What doesn't help
Prolonged bed rest. Ignoring symptoms. Relying solely on pain medication. Aggressive stretching that worsens symptoms. Repeated passive treatments with no active exercise component. Early imaging — most MRI findings are age-related and unrelated to symptoms.
When to seek help
Seek assessment if symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by weakness, numbness, or changes in bladder or bowel function. These last symptoms require urgent medical assessment.
Key takeaways
- Most sciatica resolves within 6–12 weeks with active management.
- Staying active beats resting, even when it feels counterintuitive.
- Red flag symptoms require urgent medical assessment, not physiotherapy.
Next step
Get a personalised rehabilitation programme for sciatica with KineticCare Physiotherapy in Umhlanga.
Related services
Hands-on care at our Umhlanga practice for this concern.
Back Pain & Spinal Care
Relief for lower back pain, sciatica and chronic spinal conditions through targeted assessment and rehabilitation.
Chronic Pain Management
An evidence-based plan to reduce long-term pain, restore function and rebuild confidence in movement.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques to restore movement and reduce pain.
Philani Sabela
Physiotherapist · KineticCare Physiotherapy (Pty) Ltd
PR No: 1324934 · Umhlanga, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Philani is a registered physiotherapist practising at Aurora Medical Centre in Umhlanga, treating spinal pain, sports injuries and post-surgical rehabilitation across Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.
KineticCare Physiotherapy · Umhlanga
Ready to move better, feel better, and live better?
Book a one-on-one assessment with Philani Sabela at Aurora Medical Centre, or reach out on WhatsApp or by phone — we'll help you take the next step today.