Sciatica Treatment Rayleigh, Essex — The Body Diagnostic
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Sciatica Treatment · Rayleigh, Essex

Sciatica — pain down your leg that doesn't have to stay there

That shooting pain, tingling, or numbness running from your back into your leg is your nervous system talking. The question is what it's actually saying — and that's what we find out.

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Understanding sciatica

Sciatica is a symptom — not a diagnosis

Sciatica describes pain that travels along the sciatic nerve — from the lower back, through the buttock, and down the leg. It can feel like a sharp shooting pain, a deep ache, tingling, numbness, or all of the above.

What most people don't realise is that "sciatica" is a description of what you're feeling, not an explanation of why it's happening. The nerve can be irritated in different places — a disc pressing on it in the lower spine, tightness in the piriformis muscle in the hip, or compression further down the leg. Each of these needs a different approach.

Treatment that doesn't start with a proper assessment is just guessing. Which is why so many people try exercises from YouTube or generic physio advice and don't get better — the approach doesn't match the actual cause.

"Brad diagnosed me and explained everything really well — explained why what was happening was happening." — Jodie B.

Who this is for

You might be in the right place if...

You have pain, tingling or numbness running down one or both legs
It's worse sitting for long periods or first thing in the morning
Certain movements make it flare up badly
It started after a heavy lift, a sudden movement, or seemingly nothing at all
You've been told you have a disc problem but nothing has changed
Rest helps temporarily but it keeps coming back
You're not sure whether to move or avoid movement
It's been going on for weeks or months with no clear explanation
How I treat sciatica

Find the source. Then fix it.

1

Identify where the nerve is being irritated

A full clinical assessment to work out exactly where along the nerve pathway the problem is coming from. This determines everything that follows.

2

Reduce irritation and calm the nervous system

Hands-on treatment, specific positioning, and guided movement to reduce nerve irritation and start calming the heightened sensitivity that comes with persistent sciatica.

3

Address the driver — not just the nerve

Whether it's disc pressure, hip tightness, poor movement patterns, or weakness in the supporting muscles — we address what's actually causing the irritation, not just the symptoms.

4

Progressive rehab and full return to function

A structured programme to rebuild strength, confidence in movement, and resilience — so the sciatica doesn't keep coming back every time you sit too long or lift something awkward.

Common questions

What people ask about sciatica

How long does sciatica take to go away?

Acute sciatica — where it came on suddenly — often settles within a few weeks with the right approach. Chronic or recurring sciatica that's been present for months typically takes longer, but with proper assessment and structured treatment most people see significant improvement within 6-8 weeks. The key is addressing the actual cause, not just managing the symptoms.

Should I rest with sciatica or keep moving?

In most cases, carefully managed movement is better than complete rest. Complete bed rest can actually worsen sciatica by decondioning the muscles that support the spine and sensitising the nervous system further. The right approach is guided, progressive movement — starting gentle and building from there based on how you respond.

What is the difference between sciatica and a trapped nerve?

Sciatica specifically refers to irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. A "trapped nerve" is a general term that can refer to nerve compression anywhere in the body. Sciatica is technically a type of trapped nerve — but the treatment depends on exactly where and why the nerve is being irritated, which requires a proper assessment to determine.

Can a sports therapist treat sciatica?

Yes — sports therapists are trained in musculoskeletal assessment and rehabilitation, which includes nerve-related conditions like sciatica. A thorough assessment can identify the source of nerve irritation, and a structured rehab programme can address it effectively. If there are any red flag symptoms present — bladder or bowel changes, significant weakness, or saddle anaesthesia — referral to a GP or specialist would be recommended.

Is sciatica treatment available in Rayleigh or Essex?

Yes — The Body Diagnostic is based at Studio 35, Fairview Park, Victoria Road, Rayleigh, SS6 8EG. Bradley Dunham offers one-to-one assessment and treatment for sciatica with no waiting list. Most new clients can be seen within a few days of enquiring.

Free resource

Want to understand what's going on first?

Free Guide

5 Reasons Your Pain Hasn't Gone Away

If you've had sciatica for a while and nothing has properly shifted it, this free guide explains the most common reasons treatment falls short — and what actually needs to change. Written in plain English, no jargon.

→ Get the free guide
What clients say

Real results from real people in Essex

★★★★★ 5.0 · 107 Google Reviews
★★★★★

"Brad diagnosed me and explained everything really well — explained why what was happening was happening. Would really recommend."

Jodie B.
★★★★★

"Brad asked loads of questions to get a true understanding of what might be causing my pain, explained everything and made me feel at ease."

Jan H.
★★★★★

"Brad has changed my life. When I first went to him I had a permanent limp and was in a lot of pain. Now I'm almost pain free and no longer limp."

Lynn N.
★★★★★

"I went to Brad initially as I was experiencing bad back pain. By week 4 of my 6 week programme I was virtually pain free. He knows his stuff!"

Chris C.
★★★★★

"I can not recommend Brad highly enough. He makes you feel comfortable and heard. He sorted out both my issues in only a few sessions."

C C
★★★★★

"After a few weeks of treatment backed up by a structured exercise plan I've got my strength back. Highly recommended."

Tony P.
★★★★★

"I wish I had found Brad sooner. He has worked wonders and I'm finally getting pain free mobility back. Thank you so much."

Tina M.
★★★★★

"Brad provides personalised treatment in a comfortable environment. Extremely knowledgeable — great treatment and advice regarding my injury."

Ian H.
★★★★★

"Brad diagnosed me and explained everything really well — explained why what was happening was happening. Would really recommend."

Jodie B.
★★★★★

"Brad asked loads of questions to get a true understanding of what might be causing my pain, explained everything and made me feel at ease."

Jan H.
★★★★★

"Brad has changed my life. When I first went to him I had a permanent limp and was in a lot of pain. Now I'm almost pain free and no longer limp."

Lynn N.
★★★★★

"I went to Brad initially as I was experiencing bad back pain. By week 4 of my 6 week programme I was virtually pain free. He knows his stuff!"

Chris C.
★★★★★

"After a few weeks of treatment backed up by a structured exercise plan I've got my strength back. Highly recommended."

Tony P.
★★★★★

"I wish I had found Brad sooner. He has worked wonders and I'm finally getting pain free mobility back. Thank you so much."

Tina M.

Ready to find out what's actually causing your sciatica?

Book an initial assessment or start with a free 10-minute discovery call. No waiting list, no hard sell.

→ Book your assessment Free discovery call