At Don Kelly Physiotherapy and Acupuncture, with clinics in Limerick and Charleville, we specialize in nonsurgical treatments for sciatica.
If you’re struggling with sharp, radiating pain down your leg, tingling sensations, or numbness that starts from your lower back and travels through your buttocks and legs, you may be suffering from sciatica.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. It usually results from a herniated disc, spinal misalignment, or tight muscles (like the piriformis) pressing on the nerve.
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve — which runs from your lower back through your hips, buttocks, and down each leg — becomes irritated or compressed.
This can result from:
A herniated disc or spinal misalignment
Tight muscles such as the piriformis
Postural issues or leg length discrepancies
Poor foot mechanics or fallen arches
Common symptoms include:
Shooting or burning pain down one leg
Tingling or numbness
Muscle weakness
Pain that worsens when sitting or bending
What are the risk factors for sciatica?
Because sciatica can happen for so many reasons, there are many potential risk factors, which include, but aren’t limited to:
- Having a current or previous injury. An injury to your spine or lower back increases your risk of developing sciatica.
- Normal wear-and-tear. As you get older, normal wear-and-tear on your spine can lead to pinched nerves, herniated disks and other conditions that can cause sciatica. Age-related conditions like osteoarthritis can also play a role.
- Having excess weight or obesity. Your spine is like a construction crane when you stand upright. The weight you carry in the front of your body is what your spine (crane) has to hoist. Muscles in your back are like the winch and cable, pulling to keep you vertical. The more weight you have, the more your back muscles have to work. That can lead to back strains, pain and other issues.
- Having insufficient core strength. Your “core” is the term for the muscles of your back and abdomen (stomach area). Like in the crane analogy, having a stronger core is like upgrading the crane’s components to handle a heavier load. The muscles of your abdomen are important because they help anchor your back muscles.
- Your job. Jobs that require heavy lifting, a lot of bending, or working in awkward or unusual positions may increase your risk of low back problems. However, jobs with prolonged sitting — especially without proper back support — may also increase your risk of low back problems.
- Not using good posture and form when lifting. Even if you’re physically fit and active, you can still be prone to sciatica if you don’t follow proper body form during weight lifting, strength training or similar activities.
- Having diabetes. Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy. That damages your nerves, including any of the nerves that can cause or contribute to sciatica.
- Physical inactivity. Sitting for long periods and a lack of physical activity can contribute to an increased risk of sciatica.
- Using tobacco. Nicotine use can affect circulation and increase your risk of chronic pain. That includes conditions like sciatica.
Why Choose Nonsurgical Treatment for Sciatica?
Most cases of sciatica can be successfully treated without surgery.
At Don Kelly Physiotherapy and Acupuncture, we focus on addressing the root cause of your nerve pain — whether it’s due to muscle tension, posture, or biomechanical issues — and restore normal nerve function naturally.
Our comprehensive approach combines physiotherapy, dry needling, acupuncture, corrective exercise, and custom orthotics when necessary.
Our Nonsurgical Sciatica Treatment Options
1. Physiotherapy and Manual Therapy
Using advanced hands-on physiotherapy techniques, Don Kelly helps release tight muscles, mobilize stiff joints, and improve spinal alignment to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
This includes:
Spinal and pelvic mobilization
Soft tissue and myofascial release
Trigger point therapy
Each treatment plan is tailored to your condition and comfort level.
2. Dry Needling and Acupuncture
Dry needling is highly effective for releasing tight muscles that may compress the sciatic nerve. By inserting fine needles into specific trigger points, Don helps reduce pain, improve circulation, and restore normal muscle function.
Acupuncture, on the other hand, promotes natural healing by balancing the body’s energy pathways and reducing inflammation.
Combined, these methods often bring faster and longer-lasting relief for sciatica pain.
3. Custom Orthotics for Postural and Nerve Support
Foot mechanics play a major role in spinal alignment. Flat feet or poor arch support can cause uneven pressure on the lower back and hips, worsening sciatic nerve irritation.
At Don Kelly Physiotherapy and Acupuncture, we may recommend custom orthotics to correct posture, stabilize your pelvis, and reduce strain on the sciatic nerve.
These orthotics are tailored to your feet and gait pattern to support natural movement and long-term recovery.
4. Corrective Exercises and Stretching
A personalized exercise program helps strengthen your back, core, and hip muscles to protect the sciatic nerve.
Exercises focus on improving flexibility, posture, and spinal stability to prevent future flare-ups.
Don provides clear guidance on safe, effective stretches and strengthening movements you can do at home.
5. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice
Simple daily habits — such as sitting posture, driving position, or footwear — can make a huge difference.
We’ll teach you proper movement techniques and ergonomic adjustments to prevent recurring nerve irritation and keep your spine healthy.
Why Patients in Limerick and Charleville Trust Don Kelly
With over 26 years of professional experience, Don Kelly has treated thousands of patients suffering from back, leg, and nerve pain.
He is known across Limerick and Charleville for his hands-on approach, combining physiotherapy, acupuncture, and dry needling for powerful, long-lasting results.
Unlike many clinics where you might see junior therapists, Don personally handles every patient, ensuring expert-level care at every session.
Get Relief from Sciatica Without Surgery
If sciatica pain is affecting your work, sleep, or quality of life — don’t wait for it to worsen.
With the right nonsurgical approach, you can achieve lasting relief and return to your normal routine.
📍 Don Kelly Physiotherapy and Acupuncture – Limerick & Charleville
Offering expert physiotherapy, dry needling, acupuncture, and custom orthotics for sciatica and back pain.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
