Our certified McKenzie physical therapists can bring your spinal problems to a halt.
Sciatica refers to leg pain that originates from the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back, through your buttocks, and down each of your legs. It's caused by an underlying spinal condition that affects the nerve, often resulting in compression of the nerve root. This compression can cause radiating pain in the back and legs, typically on one side of the body, that can extend all the way down to the foot. As the largest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve plays a crucial role in our ability to move and feel sensations in the legs and feet.
When pain is felt in one leg but not the other, it often indicates the presence of sciatica. Additional symptoms of this condition may include discomfort while bending forward or backward. If the pain becomes intense and results in difficulty moving, seeking immediate medical attention is advisable.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of sciatica. Our physical therapist can design a treatment plan that aims to reduce pain, improve flexibility and strength, and increase overall function.
Physical therapy techniques commonly used for sciatica include stretching exercises, strength training, and low-impact aerobic exercises. These exercises can help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle and joint mobility. In addition, our physical therapists may use modalities such as heat or ice therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to alleviate pain and promote healing.
Overall, physical therapy is an effective non-surgical treatment option for managing sciatica, helping patients to improve their quality of life and avoid the need for more invasive interventions.
