For those who suffer from it, sciatica can be a frustrating and painful back condition that is debilitating in many cases. Those who deal with sciatica are always looking for robust treatment and pain reduction methods, and a common question often arises: Can physical therapy help sciatica?
At ImPackt Physical Therapy, we’re proud to offer a wide range of physical therapy services to patients around Riverton, South Jordan and nearby areas, with physical therapists who specialize in a huge range of conditions that includes sciatica and back pain. Physical therapy can absolutely be helpful for those with sciatica and similar back pain issues – here are some basics on what sciatica is, what causes it, and how our physical therapy services can be helpful.
What is Sciatica?
The term sciatica comes from the presence of the sciatic nerve, which is the single longest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back down through the buttocks and into each leg. Sciatica is a condition that causes pain, numbness or tingling sensations along this nerve pathway, usually on one side of the body. The pain can range from mild to severe and may be intermittent or constant.
Sciatica is not a medical diagnosis in itself – rather, it is a symptom of an underlying condition or issue. Because the sciatic nerve is connected to so much of the body, issues with this nerve can cause pain and discomfort in many areas. This may include the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica can be caused by a wide range of factors, each of which involves inflammation and pain in the sciatic nerve. These inflammation causes can include:
- Bulging disc: In many cases, sciatica is caused by a bulging disc in the spine. This can occur when a disc slips out of place and puts pressure on the nerve.
- Spinal stenosis: This is a condition in which the spinal canal becomes narrow, putting pressure on the nerves within the spine.
- Pregnancy: As a woman’s body changes during pregnancy, it can put additional pressure on the sciatic nerve and lead to pain and discomfort.
- Muscle strain or injury: Inflammation or damage to muscles in the lower back or buttocks can also lead to sciatica.
- Other underlying conditions: Sciatica can also be caused by other medical conditions such as arthritis, infections or tumors.
Rest is Often Counterproductive
One peculiar aspect of sciatica is that while rest can be helpful for many other types of pain and injuries, it’s often counterproductive for those with sciatica. This is because prolonged periods of inactivity can cause the muscles to tighten and increase pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Additionally, many people with sciatica find relief through movement and exercise – which leads us to how physical therapy can help.
Physical Therapy for Sciatica
Physical therapy is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment option for sciatica that focuses on addressing the root cause of the pain. Our physical therapists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs and goals.
This begins with an assessment to determine the cause of your sciatica and identify any contributing factors, such as poor posture or muscle imbalance. From there, we will use a variety of techniques and exercises to help alleviate pain, increase flexibility and strength, and improve overall function.
Some common physical therapy treatments for sciatica may include:
- Stretching exercises: To release tension in muscles that may be compressing the sciatic nerve, various stretching exercises may be prescribed. These may range from basic static stretches to more dynamic exercises.
- Strengthening exercises: Weak muscles in the back, hips, and legs can contribute to sciatica. Physical therapy will often include specific exercises to target and strengthen these areas.
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, or manipulation may be used to reduce pain and improve range of motion.
- Posture correction: Poor posture can worsen sciatica. Physical therapy will often help correct any postural imbalances to reduce pain and prevent future flare-ups.
- Education and self-management techniques: Our physical therapists will provide education on proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and other strategies for managing your symptoms at home.
Physical therapy has been proven to be a highly effective treatment for sciatica, providing both short-term relief and long-lasting improvements. Whether your sciatica is caused by a specific injury or is a chronic issue, our experienced physical therapists can help you find relief and regain function.
Contact us at ImPackt Physical Therapy to schedule an assessment and begin your journey towards pain-free living. We’re happy to assist patients around Riverton and South Jordan with a wide range of conditions, including sciatica and back pain plus a host of others.
