21/01/2026
Low back pain or sciatica can be incredibly disruptive – and it’s one of the most common reasons people come to see us at OH One Physiotherapy.
Many people we see in clinic describe sharp pain travelling down the leg, stiffness in the lower back, or difficulty sitting for long periods. These symptoms can have several underlying causes, including disc bulges or herniations, age-related spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis where a vertebra slips forward, muscular spasm or inflammation, and in rarer cases more complex spinal conditions.
A common question we’re asked is how to tell the difference between sciatica and general low back pain. Low back pain usually stays local to the back, whereas sciatica tends to shoot down the leg and can travel below the knee. That pattern helps our physios identify possible nerve involvement early.
At our clinics, assessments include detailed movement testing, neurological checks and clinical tools such as the straight-leg raise test. This allows us to build a clear picture of what’s causing your pain and how best to treat it.
Physiotherapy is highly effective for sciatica and most people improve without the need for invasive treatment. Care is tailored to you and may include strengthening exercises, sciatic nerve glides, hands-on manual therapy and practical self-management strategies to support long-term recovery. Medication can help with short-term pain relief, but physiotherapy remains the most effective solution for lasting improvement.
If you’re struggling with sciatica or persistent low back pain in Swansea, our team is here to help with evidence-based care designed around your lifestyle.
📞 Get in touch to book an assessment
📍 https://www.oh-one.co.uk/physiotherapy-clinic-locations
💬 Same-day appointments available
