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Fzt. Bilal KaraFizyoterapi & Rehabilitasyon
Spinal Health

Deciding Whether to Keep Training with Sciatica as an Athlete

Fzt. Bilal Kara · 24 June 2026 · 1 min read

Bel ve bacağa yayılan ağrının fizyoterapist tarafından değerlendirilmesi

When sciatica starts, stopping training altogether usually isn't necessary. Which movements can continue is worked out through assessment.

The most common question from athletes with sciatica is "should I stop training completely?" The answer is usually no, but the programme needs to change.

Which movements can continue?

Lower-body movements and trunk stabilisation work that don't noticeably trigger pain spreading into the leg can usually continue; upper-body work often doesn't need limiting during this period.

Movements to avoid

Heavy free-weight forward-bending lifts, such as a deadlift, and activities involving prolonged sitting can trigger sciatic pain.

Why stopping completely is also risky

A long break from training can lead to conditioning loss and, in a cyclical way, extend how long the athlete stays out through the injury.

A graded return

As pain reduces, the movements that were restricted are added back into the programme gradually, with tolerance monitored throughout.

Fzt. Bilal Kara assesses which training can continue for athletes with sciatica in Bursa Nilüfer. You can book an appointment.

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