What You're Experiencing

Pain, numbness, or tingling running from buttock down the back of the leg — worse when sitting, better when standing or walking.

When to seek help: This symptom should be assessed by a physiotherapist within the next 1-2 weeks to prevent it from worsening.

Likely Causes

This symptom is commonly caused by one or more of the following conditions. A physiotherapist can identify the exact cause through a thorough assessment.

1 Sciatica from herniated disc
2 Piriformis syndrome
3 Lumbar spinal stenosis
4 Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

What a Physiotherapist Will Do

1. Assessment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination including movement tests, palpation, and posture analysis to identify the root cause of your leg pain when sitting.

2. Diagnosis

Based on the assessment, they'll explain which of the likely causes applies to you and discuss the best treatment approach.

3. Treatment

Treatment typically combines hands-on therapy for immediate relief with targeted exercises to address the underlying cause. Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 sessions.

4. Home Programme

You'll receive specific exercises and advice to continue your recovery at home, helping you get better faster between sessions.

Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn more about the conditions and treatments related to this symptom:

condition Sciatica → condition Herniated Disc → treatment Manual Therapy →

Helpful Articles

Best Exercises Sciatica →Hip Pain Sitting Too Long →Office Worker Back Pain →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is leg pain from sitting serious?

Leg pain that gets worse with sitting and includes numbness or tingling is likely sciatica — nerve compression in the lower back. 75% resolve with physiotherapy in 6-8 weeks. See a physio if symptoms last more than 2 weeks.

Why does my leg hurt when I sit?

Sitting compresses the sciatic nerve and tightens hip flexors. This can cause referred pain from the lower back or piriformis muscle. Regular breaks and specific stretches can help, but persistent pain needs assessment.

How can I prevent leg pain from sitting?

Take breaks every 30-45 minutes, use a lumbar support cushion, keep feet flat on the floor, and do hip flexor stretches throughout the day. A physiotherapist can teach you specific exercises for your situation.