Sciatica Treatment Perth | Surgical & Non-Surgical Options
Nerve pain holding you back? Here’s what you need to know about sciatica
“The right sciatica treatment can help relieve pressure on the nerve and get you moving more comfortably again.”
Consulting at
Murdoch
[All surgeons]
Wexford Medical Centre
Suite 13
3 Barry Marshall Pde
Murdoch WA 6150
Nedlands
[Dr O’Beirne & Dr Hardisty]
Hollywood Medical Centre
Suite 37
85 Monash Avenue
Nedlands WA 6008
Joondalup
[Dr Ghoshal]
Joondalup Health Campus
Suite 17, Specialist Medical Centre (East), 60 Shenton Avenue
Joondalup WA 6027
- Contact us
- 08 6166 3778
Sciatica Treatment Perth
What is sciatica?
Pain that runs from the lower back down the leg is often called sciatica. It happens when the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, is compressed or irritated at its origin in the lumbar spine. This can cause sharp, burning pain, tingling, or weakness in the leg.
What causes sciatica?
The most common causes of sciatica include:
- Herniated discs – A slipped or bulging disc pressing on the nerve.
- Spinal stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal, pinching the nerve.
- Spondylolisthesis – A vertebra slipping out of place and pressing on the nerve.
- Bone spurs – Overgrowths of bone that put pressure on the nerve.
Non-surgical treatment for sciatica
Dr Ghoshal takes a practical approach to treatment—surgery isn’t the first step unless it’s absolutely necessary. In most cases, sciatica improves over time and there are ways to manage the pain while that happens. Every case is different, but with the right treatment, many people can avoid sciatica surgery altogether. Some options that may help include:
- Physiotherapy – Strengthening exercises and stretches to relieve pressure on the nerve.
- Pain management – Medications, anti-inflammatories, or targeted injections.
- Lifestyle changes – Weight management, posture correction and activity modification.
For many people, a combination of these treatments can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.
When is surgery needed for sciatica?
Sciatica surgery is only considered when other treatments haven’t worked and the symptoms are starting to affect daily life. It may be an option if:
- Pain is severe and hasn’t improved after months of treatment.
- There is significant weakness or difficulty moving the leg.
- There are signs of nerve damage, such as loss of bladder or bowel control.
If the nerve stays compressed for too long, permanent damage can occur. In these cases, spinal surgery may be the best way to relieve pressure, prevent further complications and improve mobility.
What type of surgery is used for sciatica?
Microdiscectomy
This is the most common surgery for sciatica caused by a herniated disc.
- When it’s used: When a bulging disc is pressing on the sciatic nerve.
- Procedure: A small part of the disc is removed to relieve pressure.
Laminectomy
Used for spinal stenosis when the spinal canal has narrowed, pressing on the nerve.
- When it’s used: When sciatica is caused by spinal stenosis.
- Procedure: A small portion of the bone (lamina) is removed to create more space for the nerve.
Spinal fusion
A procedure to stabilise the spine if movement is irritating the sciatic nerve.
- When it’s used: If instability from degenerative disc disease or spondylolisthesis is causing sciatica.
- Procedure: Two vertebrae are permanently joined together to prevent movement.
Foraminotomy
Used when the nerve opening (foramen) is too narrow, causing compression.
- When it’s used: If bone spurs or narrowing are pinching the nerve.
- Procedure: The opening where the nerve exits the spine is widened to relieve pressure.
Navigation-assisted spine surgery
Dr Ghoshal specialises in navigation-assisted spine surgery, which improves accuracy and precision during spinal procedures.
- When it’s used: During fusion surgery, for accurate placement of screws in the spine.
- Procedure: Real-time imaging technology helps guide the surgical instruments, reducing risks and improving outcomes.
What to expect after sciatica surgery?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery performed, but in most cases:
- Pain relief happens quickly – Many patients feel an improvement within days.
- Full healing can take months – Some surgeries require longer recovery times.
- Physiotherapy helps prevent future issues – Strengthening the back and improving flexibility can reduce the risk of sciatica returning.
The majority of people who undergo surgery for sciatica experience significant pain relief, with a good long-term outcome.
Dr Abhijeet Ghoshal | Orthopaedic Surgeon Perth
Why choose Dr Ghoshal for sciatica treatment?
Dr Abhijeet Ghoshal is an Orthopaedic Surgeon with a special interest in spinal conditions, including degenerative disorders, trauma, infection and navigation-assisted surgery. He completed his Orthopaedic training in Perth before further specialising in spinal surgery through fellowships in Cardiff and Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Dr Ghoshal’s approach is patient-first, meaning surgery is only considered when truly necessary.
- Specialist in navigation-assisted spine surgery – Uses advanced imaging technology for greater precision in spinal procedures.
- Extensive experience in degenerative spine conditions – Special interest in treating spinal stenosis, herniated discs and spondylolisthesis.
- Respected researcher and educator – Published research on lumbar spine biomechanics and cartilage testing.
- Global experience – Having lived in India, Australia, Singapore and the UK, he understands different cultural perspectives on healthcare.
- Multilingual communication – Fluent in English, Bengali and Hindi, ensuring clear and comfortable communication for a diverse range of patients.
If sciatica is affecting your mobility and quality of life, book an appointment with Dr Ghoshal today at Western Orthopaedic Clinic in Perth.