Sciatic Nerve Pain Explained: Why Your Hip, Not Your Back, May Be the Real Problem

Many people assume sciatica starts in the spine.

Surprisingly, the hip and buttocks are often the real culprits.

Understanding the Sciatic Nerve Pathway

The sciatic nerve:

Exits the lower spine

Passes through the pelvis

Travels beneath and between deep hip muscles

Runs down the back of the leg

Any dysfunction along this path can trigger pain.

The Piriformis Connection

The piriformis muscle sits directly over the sciatic nerve.

When it becomes tight, inflamed, or imbalanced, it can compress the nerve—causing classic sciatica symptoms.

This condition is often misdiagnosed as a disc issue.

Why Stretching Alone Isn’t Enough

Generic stretches may:

Miss the actual restriction

Irritate the nerve further

Create instability elsewhere

Effective sciatica repair requires precise assessment and skilled manual correction.

The Role of Gluteal Dysfunction

Weak or overworked glute muscles:

Force smaller muscles to overcompensate

Alter pelvic mechanics

Increase nerve compression

Addressing these issues requires hands-on evaluation.

Why Targeted Massage Is Effective

Medical massage for sciatica:

Identifies specific dysfunctional tissues

Releases compression safely

Improves circulation and nerve health

Restores movement patterns

Many people searching “massage for sciatica near me” are really searching for answers, not relaxation.

A Practical Path Forward

If imaging has been inconclusive or treatments haven’t worked, a mechanical, muscle-based approach often provides clarity—and relief.