02/11/2026
⚡ SCIATICA DOESN’T ALWAYS START WHERE YOU FEEL THE PAIN.
When we think about sciatica, we tend to focus on the lower back, glutes and pain travelling down the leg. But have you considered what’s happening around the nerve roots at the spine?
🧠 UNDERSTANDING THE ANATOMY
The sciatic nerve originates from nerve roots in the lower lumbar and sacral spine (L4–S3).
These nerve roots contribute to the formation of the lumbosacral plexus, with the L4 nerve root also contributing to the lumbar plexus.
Interestingly, the lumbar plexus sits within the psoas major muscle, making the anterior lumbar region another important area to consider when assessing nerve-related symptoms.
🔬 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN NERVE MOBILITY IS RESTRICTED?
Nerves need to glide freely through the surrounding tissues as we move.
When adhesions or restrictions develop around neural structures, their normal movement may become compromised, potentially contributing to increased neural sensitivity.
This can be associated with symptoms such as:
🔸 Sharp, shooting pain travelling into the glute, hamstring, calf or foot.
🔸 Deep, persistent aching around the lower back and hip.
🔸 Burning sensations, tingling or electric-shock-like pain.
🔸 Pain extending into the groin or front of the thigh, depending on the nerves involved.
🔸 Pulling sensations or discomfort during certain movements.
🎯 WHY LOOK BEYOND THE SYMPTOMS?
Many approaches focus on where the pain is felt. But sometimes, the clinical picture requires us to investigate further along the nerve pathway.
The objective isn’t simply to chase the pain down the leg. It’s to understand the anatomy, investigate potential sources of restriction and treat the structures involved.
🌿 WHEN IT COMES TO NERVE PAIN, PRECISION MATTERS.
📍 Essex
💬 Comment “PAIN” if you’re struggling with persistent nerve-related pain.
