Sciatica
Pain that radiates from the lower back down into the leg — what it is, why it happens, and how our consultant in pain management can help.
Sciatica is nerve pain that travels from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg, when the sciatic nerve is irritated or compressed.
It's a very common problem and, reassuringly, most cases settle with time and the right support. When the pain is persistent or severe, there are effective treatments to calm the nerve and get you moving comfortably again.
Symptoms of sciatica.
The pain usually follows the path of the nerve — typically down one leg rather than both.
Why it happens.
Sciatica is a symptom of pressure on the sciatic nerve rather than a condition in itself. Several things can be behind it, and some make it more likely.
Don't wait for it to settle.
Early assessment helps you get the right treatment sooner. See a specialist if:
Diagnosed by a thorough clinical examination.
Sciatica is usually diagnosed in clinic by a consultant taking your history and examining your back, legs and the pattern of your symptoms — including simple movement and reflex checks. Dr Mohamed Khafaga, Consultant in Anaesthesia & Pain Management, will confirm what's behind your pain and talk you through the options at your appointment.
How sciatica is treated.
We start with the least invasive option that's likely to work for you, and only step up if it's needed.
Many cases settle with time, gentle movement, simple pain relief and keeping active within comfort — often the sensible first step rather than resting completely.
A targeted injection to calm the irritated nerve and ease the pain, helping you move and rehabilitate more comfortably. Dr Khafaga can often assess and treat in the same visit.
For longer-lasting nerve pain, a precise treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to quieten the nerves carrying the pain signal. Whether it's right for you is decided together at your consultation.
Seen in days — not months on a list.
A named specialist, not a junior — all the way through.
Every price published and confirmed in writing.
Seen privately, without the wait.
We bill major UK insurers directly.
Will sciatica go away on its own? +
Often, yes. Many cases of sciatica ease over a few weeks with gentle movement, staying active and simple pain relief. If the pain is severe, persistent or coming with weakness, that's the point to have it assessed rather than waiting it out.
Can sciatica be treated in one visit? +
In many cases, yes. Dr Khafaga can assess your pain and, where appropriate, carry out a nerve block injection at the same appointment. You pay for the consultation plus the procedure, and the cost is clear before anything goes ahead.
How much does sciatica treatment cost? +
An initial consultation with the consultant is £200, with a follow-up at £134. A nerve block injection is £450 and radiofrequency nerve ablation is £1,100. Every price is published upfront, so you always know where you stand.
Do I need a scan for sciatica? +
Not always. Sciatica is usually diagnosed by a careful history and clinical examination. If the consultant feels imaging would add useful information for your particular case, this is discussed with you at your appointment.
Don't put up with it.
Book an assessment with a consultant and get a clear picture — and a plan.