INTEGRA · CONDITIONS & INFORMATION
Nerve-Related Pain & Sciatica.
Shooting pain, tingling or numbness can leave you unsure what to do. A careful assessment can help clarify the appropriate next step.
Symptoms Are A Starting Point
Sciatica involves irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve and usually affects the buttock and one leg, sometimes reaching the foot. Not all leg pain is sciatica, and nerve-related symptoms can have other causes. A description of pain alone cannot confirm a diagnosis.
Assessment Before Treatment
We ask about the pattern, any weakness or sensory changes, your medical history and how symptoms affect daily life. Examination helps determine whether you need GP review, further investigation or another service. Do not delay medical advice for new or worsening weakness.
Discussing The Options
For a suitable musculoskeletal presentation, we can discuss activity advice and exercises, with hands-on care considered where appropriate. NICE’s low back pain and sciatica guidance places manual therapy within a package including exercise. We do not promise to release a trapped nerve or cure nerve pain.
Symptoms That Need Emergency Care
Go to A&E or call 999 for sciatica on both sides, severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs, numbness around the genitals or anus, or new difficulty passing urine or controlling your bladder or bowels. These can indicate a serious problem needing hospital treatment. Read the low back pain guide
Guidance & Further Reading
Sources checked 21 October 2026. General information, not a diagnosis or personal treatment advice.
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