Shooting pain down your leg? Tingling in your foot? Lower back pain that makes sitting, walking, or sleeping uncomfortable? You may be experiencing sciatica.
Sciatica can interfere with everyday activities, but the good news is that physical therapy can often help relieve symptoms and get you moving comfortably again.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots in your lower back become irritated or compressed. Symptoms typically affect one side of the body and may include:
- Sharp, shooting pain from the lower back or buttock down the leg
- Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
- Burning sensations or muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with sitting or certain movements
Common causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and age-related changes in the spine.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy is often an effective, nonsurgical treatment option for sciatica. Your physical therapist will evaluate your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include:
- Targeted exercises to help reduce discomfort and improve movement
- Strengthening to support your back, hips, and core
- Hands-on treatment to improve mobility when appropriate
- Movement education to help you manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups
The goal isn’t just to relieve pain. It’s to help you return to the activities that matter most, whether that’s walking, golfing, gardening, or simply getting through your day comfortably.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
If your pain persists, worsens, or begins interfering with daily activities, it’s time to seek an evaluation.
Seek emergency medical attention for new bladder or bowel control problems, numbness around the groin, or severe or rapidly worsening leg weakness.
Not Sure Where to Start? Start With Us!
You don’t have to figure out your back or leg pain on your own.
At Northern Michigan Sports Medicine Center, our physical therapists can help you better understand your symptoms and determine whether physical therapy is right for you.
Take the first step toward feeling better. Request your FREE Physical Therapy Consultation today!
