Is It Really Sciatica? Your Leg Pain Might Have Another Story Radiating leg pain is often labeled as sciatica, but from an osteopathic point of view, it’s just one possible cause. Muscle tension, joint stiffness, fascial restrictions, and even visceral influences can mimic sciatica symptoms. As osteopaths, we don’t just chase symptoms—we search for the root cause. Our role is to understand why the body is in discomfort and help restore its natural balance—not just treat the area where the pain shows up. What Is Sciatica, Exactly? Sciatica is the result of compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, usually due to spinal or disc-related issues. Common symptoms include: Shooting or burning pain down the back of the leg Tingling or numbness in the foot Muscle weakness or altered reflexes BUT MANY PEOPLE WITH THESE SYMPTOMS DON’T HAVE ANY MAJOR DISC ISSUES AT ALL. And that’s where osteopathy comes in. Common Causes of Radiating Leg Pain 1. Muscle Tightness When the piriformis or deep gluteal muscles become tight, they can irritate the sciatic nerve and produce symptoms that resemble sciatica. An osteopath can assess these muscular imbalances and address lumbar compensation patterns that contribute to the pain. 2. Lumbar and Sacroiliac Joint Restrictions Misalignments in the SI joints or lower lumbar vertebrae often result in poor biomechanics, leading to muscle overuse and nerve irritation. Osteopaths can correct the mechanical chain—from the spine to the pelvis to the lower limbs—restoring natural movement and balance. 3. Fascial Restrictions Tight or dehydrated fascia can create chains of tension that pull on the spine, pelvis, or compress nerve pathways. An osteopath can release fascial strain, restoring tissue mobility and promoting better flow. 4. Visceral-Somatic Reflexes Organ dysfunction can irritate spinal nerves through shared neural pathways, producing symptoms similar to sciatica. Since organs are also connected to muscles through fascia, restrictions can cause postural compensation, stressing the lumbar spine or pelvis and causing radiating pain. Using visceral osteopathy, we can improve the mobility and motility of the organs, helping reduce referred symptoms. 5. Lower Limb Dysfunction Issues in the feet, knees, or hips can affect the body’s load distribution, leading to pelvic compensation, muscle tension, and nerve-like leg pain. An osteopath can identify and correct these misalignments to restore balance and function. Realignment, Not Just Relief Stretching, massage, or painkillers may offer temporary relief, but lasting improvement comes from restoring movement, balance, and treating the true underlying cause. Every Pain Has a Story Every pain is a clue that something in your body needs attention: • Your posture may need support • Your muscles may be compensating • Your nervous system might be overactive • Or even your digestion or circulation could be off balance Final Thoughts Leg pain may feel like sciatica, but the real issue could be something entirely different. At Dr. VINAYAK DENDGE The Health Concept Clinic, our hands-on, whole-body approach helps you find clarity, balance, and lasting relief—not just for today’s symptoms, but for your long-term wellness. Let’s explore your body’s unique story—together. Dr. Vinayak Dendge (PT) Pune's Best osteopath and chiropractic The Health Concept Clinic, Pune