Sciatica Physical Therapy Treatment
WHAT IS SCIATICA?
Sciatica, also known as sciatic nerve pain, is a common condition that is characterized by tingling, numbness and chronic lower back pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back, branches through the buttocks, and continues down the back of each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body. You may feel discomfort anywhere along the nerve, but pain often occurs along a path from your low back to your buttock and the back of your thigh and calf. The pain can vary widely, from dull to excruciating. In some cases, it can even feel like an electric shock or shooting pain down your leg. PT is often a helpful part of recovery from this type of back pain. We have many years of experience in helping patients find relief from sciatica through various techniques.
WHAT CAUSES SCIATICA?
Sciatica back pain is the result of compression of the sciatic nerve, one of the major nerves in the body which runs from the lower back through the legs. Sciatic pain is triggered by irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve, which could be the result of any of the following:
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Pregnancy
- Slipped disc
- Herniated or bulging disc
- Bone spur on the spine
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SCIATICA?
Symptoms associated with sciatica will vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity of the condition along with other factors. The most common symptoms associated with sciatica include:
- Discomfort anywhere along the sciatic nerve
- Pain that moves from the spine to the back of the leg
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Soreness or weakness in leg muscles and feet
- Increased back pain when coughing or sneezing
DO I NEED TREATMENT FOR SCIATICA PAIN RELIEF?
PT for sciatica is one of the most commonly used treatment approaches. At Exchange PT, we offer an array of treatments to get you healthy and mobile again. Our team of utilizes a hands-on approach to diagnosing and treating sciatica so you can get back to your normal activities.
If you are suffering from sciatica, visit one of our four convenient locations. We are open six days a week and accept walk ins so you can come in anytime. If you would prefer to schedule an appointment in advance, you can fill out the form on this page.
