Sciatica Specialist

What is sciatica?

The sciatic nerve runs from the base of your spine through your lower back. It then travels through your hips and buttocks and down into your legs. When this nerve becomes irritated or inflamed, you may experience severe pain known as sciatica.

Often sciatica develops due to a herniated or ruptured disc in your spine. You may also experience sciatica after an injury to your back or pelvis. Bone spurs, stress fractures, and a narrowing of the spinal canal are other potential causes of sciatica.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

If you have sciatica, you’ll likely feel pain in your lower back, buttocks, and upper thighs and possibly in your lower legs or feet. Sciatica pain may be sharp or dull.

You may also experience the following symptoms in your back, hips, or legs:

• Weakness
• Cramping
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pins and needles sensation

If you’re experiencing severe pain, your doctor may order a CT scan or X-ray to rule out other medical conditions. There isn't always an obvious cause for sciatica, so it can sometimes be challenging to treat.

How is sciatica treated?

If there is a clear cause for your sciatica, such as a herniated disc, your doctor may suggest surgery. But sciatica treatment is often focused on managing symptoms like inflammation and pain.

Your doctor may prescribe pain medications or muscle relaxants to relieve your discomfort. You may also be offered steroid injections to help reduce swelling around the nerve. These treatments can be effective, but sometimes come with unwelcome side effects.

Physical therapy at Empire Physical Therapy & Athletic Rehabilitation, PC can provide effective and long-lasting relief from sciatica symptoms. If you’re reluctant to try prescription medications or if medication hasn’t worked, physical therapy may be especially helpful for addressing your sciatica symptoms.

How can physical therapy help with sciatica?

Poor posture or uneven gait may worsen sciatica symptoms. The physical therapists at Empire PT can help correct your posture and gait to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. Physical therapy also helps strengthen your core muscles and provides better support for your back.

Your physical therapist may also recommend exercises or manual adjustments to improve your balance and flexibility. These treatments can restore proper muscle function and relieve pain or stiffness.

Sciatica pain can interfere with your daily routine, but physical therapy can help alleviate sciatica symptoms. For help managing your sciatica, call Empire Physical Therapy & Athletic Rehabilitation, PC in Manhattan or use online booking to schedule your visit today.