Targeted treatment for sciatic pain, piriformis syndrome and nerve tension in the leg. Beverley Road, New Malden KT3 4AW. BTEC Level 5 qualified. 64 five-star reviews.
Sciatica — pain, tingling or numbness running from the lower back through the buttock and into the leg — is one of the most debilitating conditions seen in practice. Most people assume it requires medical intervention. In many cases, targeted soft tissue work resolves it faster and more completely than rest or medication alone.
The sciatic nerve can be irritated in two main places: at the lumbar spine, where a disc or bony structure presses on the nerve root, or in the gluteal region, where a tight piriformis muscle compresses the nerve as it passes through or beneath it. Both produce nearly identical symptoms. Sports massage addresses the muscular component directly — releasing the piriformis, surrounding gluteals and lumbar musculature — reducing nerve compression without touching the spine itself.
For disc-driven sciatica, soft tissue work on the structures placing load on the affected disc reduces the mechanical irritation that is causing nerve compression. Results are typically slower than piriformis-driven cases but still significant.
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Piriformis Muscle
The piriformis sits deep in the gluteal region and the sciatic nerve passes directly through or beneath it. When tight, it compresses the nerve. Direct release of this muscle is the most effective intervention for piriformis syndrome.
Surrounding Gluteal Muscles
Gluteus medius and minimus tightness increases the load on the piriformis. Releasing the whole gluteal complex, not just the piriformis in isolation, produces more lasting results.
Lumbar Musculature
Tight hip flexors and erector spinae increase anterior pelvic tilt, loading the lumbar discs that may be irritating the sciatic nerve root. Releasing these reduces mechanical pressure on the affected level.
Neural Tension (Nerve Flossing)
Where appropriate, neural mobilisation techniques encourage the sciatic nerve to move freely through the surrounding soft tissue, reducing the tension that is contributing to symptoms.
The most common cause of sciatica that responds to massage. Deep gluteal tightness compressing the nerve. Usually one-sided, aggravated by sitting and relieved initially by walking.
Soft tissue work reduces the muscular load on lumbar disc levels, decreasing the mechanical compression driving nerve irritation. Improvement is gradual but consistent — 4-6 sessions is a realistic expectation.
Prolonged sitting tightens hip flexors, loads the lower back and compresses the piriformis — a perfect environment for sciatic symptoms. Desk workers are one of the most common presenting groups.
Overuse tightening of the piriformis during running, particularly in those with a weak gluteus medius or who overpronate. Often presents as buttock pain that develops during long runs.
Many clients present with both lower back pain and sciatic symptoms. Treatment addresses the whole lumbar-pelvic complex, not just the leg symptoms in isolation.
Sciatica that clears then returns every few months. Usually indicates an unresolved underlying pattern — tight hip flexors, inhibited glutes, anterior pelvic tilt — that needs to be addressed directly. Remedial massage is particularly suited to this presentation.
Every session begins with an assessment to establish the likely cause of your sciatic pain — piriformis-driven, lumbar-driven, or a combination. This determines the treatment approach: whether to prioritise the gluteal complex, the lumbar spine, or a combination of both. Nick will tell you honestly what he thinks is driving your symptoms and what to expect.
Treatment for sciatica typically addresses the piriformis and surrounding gluteal muscles, the lumbar erectors and hip flexors, and where appropriate, neural mobilisation. For complex or disc-related presentations, remedial massage uses a structured clinical assessment to approach the case systematically.
🏛️ MSMA Member — some private health insurance policies cover sports massage from SMA-registered therapists. Check with your provider.
For most presentations of sciatica — including significant pain, tingling and sitting intolerance — soft tissue work can begin without waiting for medical clearance. If you are unsure, WhatsApp Nick with a description of your symptoms before booking.
MSMA Member — Sports Massage Association (SMA)
If you hold private health insurance, you may be able to claim sports massage sessions back. Check with your provider — a detailed receipt is provided on request.
"Nick gets to the root of the problem every time — I always leave feeling like a completely different person. His technique is the best I have ever experienced."
"Nick was recommended by a good friend and I couldn't have asked for a better service. He explained the plan he had for me in a very reassuring way."
"Super helpful in relieving built up tension in my back. I always leave feeling relaxed and lighter. The results have been really noticeable over time."