A sharp, shooting pain from your lower back down your leg can make every day feel exhausting. You may be dealing with sciatica — and you don’t have to suffer through it.

What is sciatica anyways?

This condition is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back, through your hips, and down each leg. It’s the kind of discomfort that can turn sitting, standing, or even walking into a daily challenge.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is can be linked to muscle strains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or age related changes all of which can irritate on the sciatic nerve and cause discomfort.

Who’s Most at Risk?

If you sit for hours on end, lift heavy objects improperly, or are dealing with age-related spinal changes, sciatica might come knocking. It’s also common in those who live a sedentary lifestyle.

How Physical Therapy Can Help Manage Sciatica Pain

Why Physical Therapy?

Dr. Caitlin utilizes manual therapy techniques, patient education and therapeutic exercises to help reduce symptoms and gradually return to your previous level of function. She is able to utilize different techniques and individualize the plan to your needs.

Comprehensive Assessment

Your physical therapy journey begins with a deep dive into your movement patterns, pain triggers, and medical history. This is where your therapist becomes a detective, piecing together clues to create a treatment plan that’s all about you.

Therapeutic Exercises

Ever tried a good piriformis or hamstring stretch? These can work wonders to improve flexibility and release tension. Add in some core and glute strengthening exercises, and you’ll have a stable foundation for your lower back and pelvis. Reach out to Built to Move for guidance if you are unsure.

Manual Therapy Techniques

Hands-on treatments like soft tissue mobilization and joint adjustments can help ease muscle tension and improve spinal alignment. And let’s not forget dry needling—a technique where tiny needles target trigger points to release knots and reduce pain. It sounds intense, but trust me, the relief is worth it!

Cupping: A Game Changer

Cupping therapy might look a little unconventional, but those small, round cups can help improve blood flow and relieve tight muscles. When paired with other therapies, it’s like giving your muscles a spa day while tackling the root cause of your pain.

Posture and Ergonomic Training

Slouching at your desk all day? Guilty! Physical therapists are posture pros and can teach you ergonomic tricks to reduce strain on your back.

Pain Modulation Therapies

Need quick relief? Therapies like heat, cold packs, or TENS (a little device that sends gentle electrical impulses) can help manage pain while you work toward long-term solutions.

Conclusion

Sciatica pain doesn’t have to be your new normal. With physical therapy, dry needling, cupping, and targeted exercises, you can take control of your recovery and prevent future episodes. Ready to take the first step? Schedule a consultation and let’s kick that sciatica pain to the curb!

As always, we are here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns or if you are interested in booking a private assessment, to get rid of sciatic pain for good

Call or text at 732-592-9064 or click below