Conditions we treat
Sciatica
Treatment South London.
Sharp, shooting leg pain from the back — we identify the cause and treat it effectively.
–GOsC Registered
–Same-Day Appointments
–No Referral Needed
–Open 7 Days
–Wallington · Morden · Sutton
Sciatica describes pain that travels along the sciatic nerve pathway — from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, sometimes as far as the foot. It’s often described as sharp, shooting, burning, or like an electric shock. At MDOsteo, it’s one of the conditions we’re most experienced at treating effectively.
What causes sciatica?
True sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve — most commonly from a prolapsed or herniated disc in the lumbar spine, or from bony changes (osteophytes) narrowing the nerve exit. However, similar symptoms can also be caused by piriformis syndrome (where the piriformis muscle in the buttock compresses the nerve), sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or referred pain from the lumbar facet joints — sometimes called “pseudo-sciatica”.
Distinguishing between these presentations matters for treatment, which is why a thorough clinical assessment is essential.
Osteopathic treatment for sciatica
For disc-related sciatica, we use gentle decompression techniques, soft tissue work, and specific exercises to reduce nerve irritation and restore lumbar mobility. The approach is cautious and carefully graded, with patient comfort guiding the pace of treatment.
For piriformis-related sciatica, targeted soft tissue work to the piriformis and hip external rotators can help relieve symptoms and improve mobility. We also address the postural and mechanical factors that led to the problem developing.
Related conditions we treat
Book an Appointment
Same-day slots available
GOsC-registered practitioners across Wallington, Morden and Sutton. No referral needed.
Pricing
Transparent fees
First appointment (assessment + treatment) £70
Return — osteopathy £60
No hidden charges.
Hands-on treatment
Neural mobilisation for
sciatic nerve pain.
Neural mobilisation is often an effective technique for reducing sciatic nerve sensitivity. By gently moving the nerve through its full range, we reduce the neural tension that is driving your shooting pain, numbness, and tingling into the leg.
Combined with lumbar decompression and soft tissue work, it allows us to address both the source of the compression and the nerve irritation itself.
How we treat it
Our approach to sciatica.
01
Neural mobilisation
Gentle techniques to reduce nerve sensitivity and restore normal nerve movement through the lower limb.
02
Lumbar decompression
Specific positional and manual techniques to reduce pressure on the affected disc or nerve root.
03
Soft tissue therapy
Targeted work on the piriformis, glutes, and lumbar muscles to relieve muscle-related nerve compression.
Simple, honest fees.
Insurance Providers
We accept the following Insurance Providers
Find us
Three clinics. One standard .
Wallington
- ✓ Same-day appointments
- ✓ Open 7 days
- ✓ Convenient parking
- ✓ Shockwave therapy
- ✓ Same-day appointments
- ✓ Open 7 days
- ✓ Convenient parking
- ✓ Shockwave therapy
Morden
- ✓ Same-day appointments
- ✓ Open 7 days
- ✓ Convenient parking
- ✓ Shockwave therapy
- ✓ Same-day appointments
- ✓ Open 7 days
- ✓ Convenient parking
- ✓ Shockwave therapy
How do I know if my sciatica is from a disc or the piriformis muscle?
Clinical assessment can usually distinguish between the two. Key differences include the pattern of pain, what makes it better or worse, and specific clinical tests. We’ll explain our findings clearly.
Do I need an MRI for sciatica?
Not necessarily. MRI can be helpful if symptoms are severe, not improving, or if there are certain red flag symptoms. We’ll advise if we think imaging is warranted.
How quickly will sciatica improve?
It depends on the cause. Piriformis-related sciatica often responds quickly — within a few sessions. Disc-related sciatica typically takes longer (6–12 weeks) but most cases do resolve with conservative treatment.
Should I rest or stay active with sciatica?
Staying gently active is usually better than complete rest. We’ll give you specific guidance based on your presentation.