Sciatica is a term used to describe radiating pain along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through the hips and down into each leg. A true diagnosis of sciatica typically involves symptoms on one side of the body. Conditions that cause compression of the sciatic nerve such as bone spurs, lumbar radiculopathy, disc herniations, or spinal stenosis, are all potential causes of sciatica. This nerve compression leads to inflammation, pain, and possible numbness in the affected leg. Nerve pain can be mild to severe depending on the level compression and inflammation.
The Most Common Signs & Symptoms of Sciatica
- Radiating pain from your lower back to your buttock and down the back of your leg
- Pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or exacerbating pain
- Increased pain with prolonged sitting
- Numbness or tingling in affected leg
- Muscle weakness in affected leg
Possible Risk Factors For Sciatica
- Age-related changes in the spine causing disc herniations, bone spurs, and spinal stenosis
- Obesity can increase the stress on your spine causing spinal changes that may trigger sciatica
- An occupation that requires you to sit for prolonged periods, twist your spine or carry heavy loads
- Physical activity levels play a role on nerve compression, especially if you have a sedentary style, which is often associated with poor physical health
(Source: Mayo Clinic)
What Are the Treatments for Sciatica?
Marcel Jacobs PT provides a hands-on physical therapy approach which means you’re going to get fast access to immediate care in order to soothe and relax those tight and aching muscles, mobilize and loosen those restricted and painful joints, and strengthen your body so that you can go back to doing the things that you love. Your therapist will perform a thorough physical examination and evaluation in order to provide you with a deeper understanding of your impairments, compensations, and dysfunctions. You may find yourself having your concerns eased, questions answered, and physical pain reduced inside of 45 minutes with your physical therapist.
