Nerve Flossing for Sciatica

There is evidence to show that sometimes sciatic pain is actually being caused by the sciatic nerve being stuck to the tissues in the gluteal (buttock) region. Interestingly, people with this type of problem can have normal looking MRI scans that don’t show any disc problems or spinal stenosis.

In some cases, the problem has to be resolved with surgery to free the stuck nerve, but research has shown some success with a simple exercise called neurodynamic mobilisation otherwise known as ‘nerve flossing’. The exercise gently encourages the sciatic nerve to move and free itself from any adhesions.

A study in 2021 showed that people who performed a nerve flossing exercise for their sciatica had reduced pain and better movement after doing the exercise 3 times a week for 2 weeks.

The study used two different versions of the flossing exercise, and both were found to be as effective as each other. One of the versions, called the ‘slider’ technique is demonstrated in the video below.

The exercise should be carried out for 10 repetitions over 2 sets, with a 2-minute rest between the sets.

Sciatic Nerve Flossing - Slider Technique

Disclaimer : If you have sciatica, then there is a chance that a stuck nerve might be contributing to the problem, particularly if you’ve had an MRI scan and nothing abnormal has been detected. In which case, this exercise may be worth trying, so long as you can do it without any added pain or discomfort. As with any exercise, if you are not sure if this is the right exercise for your problem, or you experience any pain other than a gentle stretch when completing it, then please don’t do it.

If you are suffering with back pain or sciatica then don’t suffer, book an appointment for your problem with me at Osteo Studio.

Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath

Osteo Studio serving the areas of East Grinstead, Forest Row, Lingfield and the wider West Sussex area.