Sciatica is a painful condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs. Symptoms usually start with a dull, aching pain in one side of the buttock or hip that radiates down into the leg. Other symptoms can include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, and difficulty moving or controlling the leg muscles.
The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in the lumbar region of the spine. This condition occurs when there is too much strain put on an intervertebral disc causing it to bulge out and press against nearby nerves. Other potential causes include spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), bone spurs, a traumatic injury to the back, or a tumor that compresses nerves.
Sciatica can be extremely painful and make it difficult to enjoy everyday activities. In severe cases, it may even affect walking and cause difficulty standing up straight. The good news is that there are several treatments available to help relieve sciatica pain, including medications, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and in some cases surgery. By consulting with your doctor you can find the treatment plan that works best for your needs.
By taking steps to reduce or manage existing sciatica symptoms, you can enjoy life again without fear of pain interrupting your day. With proper medical care, you will be able to experience relief from the pain and get back to living life without limitation.
To sum up, sciatica is a painful condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve and can be caused by several different conditions. Although it can be painful and limit your daily activities, there are treatments available that can help relieve symptoms so you can enjoy life again. It is important to consult with your doctor in order to find a treatment plan that works best for your needs. With proper care, you will experience relief from the pain and be able to live life without limitation.
5 Things That Could Make Your Sciatica Worse
One way to make sciatica better is to stay physically active. Exercise can help keep the muscle tissue around the affected area strong and healthy, helping to reduce pressure on the nerve root. Stretching is also beneficial, as it helps increase flexibility in the legs and lower back which may relieve tension on the sciatic nerve. Additionally, hot or cold therapy may be used to reduce inflammation of the affected area.
On the other hand, there are certain activities that should be avoided if you suffer from sciatica. Here are a handful of things that could make the pain you are experiencing because of sciatica worse:
1. Poor posture: Poor posture can put extra pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and discomfort. When sitting for long periods of time, make sure you have good lower back support and try to keep your head straight.
2. Being overweight: Carrying excess weight can add strain to the spine and aggravate existing sciatica symptoms. Eating a nutritious diet and regular exercise will help alleviate the pain associated with sciatica.
3. Doing activities that require bending or twisting: Activities such as gardening, lifting heavy objects, or even playing sports can cause stress on the lower back muscles which may lead to irritation in the sciatic nerve and increased pain levels.
4. Smoking: Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen and nutrients that are able to reach the muscles, nerves, and discs in the spine. This can lead to more inflammation and pain for those suffering from sciatica.
5. Stress: Stress can affect our body in many ways including increased muscle tension which can place strain on the lower back and irritate the sciatic nerve leading to increased pain levels. Taking time out for relaxation activities or exercise may help reduce stress levels as well as alleviate some of the symptoms associated with sciatica.
How Can We As Physical Therapists Help With Sciatica?
Physical therapists are trained to help people manage and find relief from sciatica. Physical therapy uses natural treatments such as therapeutic exercises, stretches, massage, traction, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and other modalities to reduce the pain associated with sciatica.
The therapist will evaluate your condition by understanding your medical history, performing a physical exam, and possibly using imaging tests.
The physical therapy treatment plan for sciatica will vary depending on the underlying cause of the problem.
Common interventions that physical therapists use for treating sciatica include specific strengthening exercises to improve stability and flexibility of the spine; stretching exercises to restore mobility in the affected areas; postural correction techniques to address poor posture; manual therapies such as joint mobilization or manipulation to correct joint dysfunctions; massage and heat therapies to reduce muscle spasm; and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation to improve blood circulation, decrease inflammation and accelerate tissue healing.
Overall, physical therapy can be beneficial in managing sciatica. It is a safe, natural way to find relief from pain without relying on injections or surgery.
Through a combination of therapeutic exercises, manual therapies, stretching, postural correction techniques and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation, physical therapists can help people manage their conditions effectively. With the right treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, you can find the relief you are looking for.
Until next time,
Eric Wallace, PT