Sciatica
Physiotherapy for Sciatic Nerve Pain in Bondi Junction
Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain radiating from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg. It can range from a mild ache to sharp, shooting pain, and may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness. At JW Physical Health, we provide physiotherapy for sciatica focused on reducing nerve irritation, improving movement, and helping you return to normal activities with confidence.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve — the largest nerve in the body — which travels from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. When this nerve becomes irritated, it can cause symptoms anywhere along its pathway.
Common causes of sciatica include:
- Disc bulges or herniations in the lower back
- Joint stiffness or irritation in the spine
- Muscle tightness (particularly in the glutes or piriformis)
- Prolonged sitting or poor movement patterns
- Lifting or twisting injuries
Understanding the underlying cause is key to effectively treating sciatica and preventing it from recurring.
Common Symptoms
Sciatica symptoms can vary but often include:
- Pain travelling from the lower back into the buttock and leg
- Sharp, shooting, or burning nerve pain
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged positions
Symptoms are often felt more in the leg than the lower back.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
At JW Physical Health, our physiotherapy approach to sciatica is focused on relieving nerve irritation while restoring normal movement and strength.
Treatment may include:
- Manual Therapy Techniques to reduce muscle tension and improve spinal movement
- Joint mobilisations to relieve pressure on the nerve
- Targeted Exercises to improve mobility and reduce nerve sensitivity
- Strengthening programs to support the lower back and hips
- Dry needling where appropriate
We tailor treatment to your specific presentation, ensuring exercises and progressions are appropriate to your stage of recovery.
What to Expect from Treatment
Your session will begin with a detailed assessment to identify the source of your sciatic symptoms and determine the most effective treatment approach. From there, we develop a personalised plan aimed at reducing pain and improving function.
You will also receive clear guidance on posture, movement, and activity modification to help manage symptoms day-to-day and avoid aggravation.
Getting You Back to Normal Activity
With the right treatment and progression, most cases of sciatica improve well with physiotherapy. Our goal is not only to reduce your current symptoms, but to address the underlying cause and build resilience so you can return to work, exercise, and daily life without ongoing issues.
If you are experiencing sciatic nerve pain, our physiotherapists in Bondi Junction are here to help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to your goals.


