How can Physical Therapy help with Sciatica?

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, and can be felt from the lumbar region all the way to the feet. The pain may be caused by a variety of factors, including herniated discs, inflammatory joint changes, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.

Along with the pain, common symptoms of sciatica are:

• Weakness in one or both legs, making it difficult to walk or stand;
• Numbness or tingling in the affected leg or foot;
• Muscle spasms in the affected area, which can be painful and interfere with mobility;

Risks associated with sciatica

There are several risks associated with untreated sciatica, such as prolonged pain which may be accompanied by physical and emotional stress, permanent nerve damage, dependence on pain medications, and others that may cause a negative impact on quality of life.

Because of that, the individual should seek medical assistance, investigate the causes of this condition and carry out the appropriate treatment.

How physical therapy can help relieve sciatica pain

The first step in treating sciatica through physical therapy is to identify the underlying cause of the pain. This can be done through a thorough medical evaluation, which may include a physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies.

After that, a physical therapist can use this information to develop a customized treatment plan to address your case.

Some of the most common treatments for sciatica pain are described below.

1. Stretching and strengthening exercises

A physical therapist can help the patient determine which exercises are most appropriate for their individual needs and can demonstrate how to perform them correctly.

2. Manual therapy

Manual therapy includes techniques such as massage, trigger point release, or joint mobilization. Besides doing it in the session, the physical therapist can teach the patient how to perform them on themselves at home, helping in pain management.

3. Aquatic therapy

The buoyancy of the water can help reduce pressure on the back.

4. Postural correction

Poor posture is often a contributing factor to sciatica pain. The professional can help the patient identify any postural imbalances and develop a program to correct them.

5. Education on proper body mechanisms

A physical therapist can work with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of the pain and includes a combination of all the techniques mentioned.

If you are suffering from sciatica, contact us or book an appointment online and we’ll help you understand if physical therapy is the best alternative for you!