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Postural Distortions & Massage 
Part 8 of my new series!
In this series, I will attempt to describe some of the common problems that could be helped through massage therapy. If you are afflicted with any of these, massage could be used on it's own or along with your doctor's administrations. Just be aware that some of these problems may take some time to achieve results.
Sciatica:
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and can be compromised in a few ways. The good thing about it is that it is located deeply under a few of the larger muscles of the body, so is well protected. Unfortunately, it can be trapped within those over tight muscles or against bony structures. The pain pattern typically associated with Sciatica is one that travels down the back side of the leg, sometimes spreading to the outside edge and traveling all the way down to the foot.
Once any any lumbar spine, sacroiliac or hip joint pathology has been ruled out it can be treated fairly easily by massage therapy. Loosening the over tight gluteal muscles generally resolves the pain pretty quickly. If the nerve is entrapped, it is commonly trapped in the smaller hip rotating muscles found lower in the pelvic structure.
There are trigger points in the gluteus minimus that will mimic the pain of sciatica without involving the nerve at all. The work for this would be higher than the work for entrapment and should not be overlooked.
While you are receiving this work it is a good idea to let your therapist know what sensations you are receiving - if the pain has increased anywhere or if anything feels at all uncomfortable. It is a tough area to get to and extra pressure is usually applied.
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