Sciatica assessment in Gloucester
Understand your symptoms and discuss suitable care with Longlevens Chiro.
Sciatica describes symptoms caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. Pain commonly travels from the bottom down one leg and may reach the foot or toes, with tingling, numbness or weakness. Back pain alone does not necessarily mean sciatica.
At Longlevens Chiro in Gloucester, we assess sciatica and symptoms described as a trapped or pinched nerve before discussing whether chiropractic care is appropriate. Similar symptoms can have different causes, so we begin with a clear assessment.
Book a chiropractic assessment online or call 01452 309372.
When to seek urgent medical help
Go to A&E or call 999 for sciatica on both sides, severe or worsening numbness or weakness in both legs, numbness around your genitals or anus, or new difficulty starting or controlling urination or bowel movements. Do not wait for a routine clinic appointment.
Further information: NHS sciatica guidance.
Understanding trapped-nerve symptoms
“Trapped nerve” is an everyday description rather than a diagnosis. It can be used for symptoms in different parts of the body; sciatica specifically concerns the nerve travelling into the leg.
What your assessment considers
- Where symptoms start and how they travel
- Changes in strength, sensation and movement
- The effect on work, sleep and everyday activities
- Your health history and previous treatment
We explain whether clinic care, further investigation or referral is appropriate. The clinic is at 14 Cheltenham Road, Gloucester, GL2 0LS, with free parking and disabled access. View current fees.
What to do if you have a Trapped Nerve
Keep up gentle movement and everyday activity as far as you can, rather than spending long periods sitting or lying down. A pharmacist can advise about suitable pain relief. See your GP if symptoms are worsening, stopping normal activities or have not improved after a few weeks of self-care.
Use the urgent-help guidance above for the specified emergency symptoms.
Your assessment and care plan
We agree a plan around your findings and the activities you want to return to. Options may include tailored exercise, movement advice and hands-on care where appropriate. We discuss benefits, risks, alternatives and expected costs before treatment.
Progress is reviewed against practical goals, such as walking, sitting at work or sleeping more comfortably. If the findings or your response indicate that another healthcare service is more appropriate, we explain the next steps.
Practical support between visits
Tell us which activities improve or aggravate symptoms and how you respond to any exercises. This helps us adjust the amount, frequency or type of activity in your plan. Contact the clinic about new or worsening symptoms rather than waiting for the next review.
Recovery varies and symptoms can return. We will discuss a manageable approach to work, home tasks and exercise, with regular opportunities to review what is helping.
Preparing for your appointment
- A list of medicines and relevant medical conditions
- Previous assessments, treatment or scan reports, if available
- When symptoms began and any recent changes
- Your main questions and the activities you want to get back to
You do not need to diagnose the problem before booking. If you are unsure which appointment to choose, call 01452 309372.
Accreditations & Affiliations
Chiropractic Organisations
Healthcare Insurance Companies
