That sharp, shooting pain running from the lower back down the leg has a name — sciatica — and it’s one of the most common reasons people search for both “physiotherapist near me” and “chiropractor near me”. So which one should you actually book? The honest answer: either can help, and here’s why.
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica describes pain along the sciatic nerve, usually caused by irritation or compression somewhere along its path — most often from a disc bulge, joint changes, or muscle tightness in the lower back or buttock (piriformis syndrome).
How physiotherapists typically approach it
- Movement-based assessment to identify the likely source and aggravating positions
- Exercise-based rehabilitation to reduce nerve irritation and rebuild strength
- Manual therapy and, where appropriate, dry needling
- Graded return to normal activity, work and sport
How chiropractors typically approach it
- Assessment of spinal and pelvic joint function
- Spinal adjustment and mobilisation techniques
- Soft tissue work around the lower back and hip
- Guidance on posture and movement patterns
More overlap than you’d expect
In practice, both professions use manual therapy, both prescribe exercise, and both will refer on for imaging or specialist review if your symptoms suggest it’s needed. The “right” choice often comes down to personal preference and what’s worked for you before.
Signs you should seek care sooner rather than later
- Progressive weakness in your leg or foot
- Numbness in the groin or saddle area, or new bladder/bowel changes
- Pain that isn’t easing at all after a couple of weeks
Any of the above — particularly saddle numbness or bladder/bowel changes — warrants prompt medical assessment.
You don’t need to get the “right” profession on the first try — either team can assess you and point you in the right direction.
Dealing with sciatic pain?
Book with our physiotherapy or chiropractic team — either can assess and start treatment.
Because our physiotherapists and chiropractors work under one roof, you’re never locked into one approach — if your case would benefit from the other discipline, your practitioner can point you there directly.
Learn more from independent sources: healthdirect Australia and the Australian Physiotherapy Association. Information on this page is general in nature and not a substitute for individual assessment or professional advice.
Information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for individualised advice from a registered health practitioner. Our practitioners are registered with AHPRA.