What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and down your legs, gets irritated or compressed. This can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your lower body. Sitting, standing for long periods, or sudden movements can make it worse. The pain might feel sharp, burning, or like an electric shock, and in some cases, it can make walking or bending difficult.
Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Treatment
People with sciatica often wonder if surgery is the best solution. Procedures like a discectomy—removing part of a herniated disc—can bring quick relief, especially for severe leg pain. But surgery comes with risks, and long-term results aren’t always better than non-surgical options.
- Surgery carries potential complications, such as infection, nerve damage, or a recurrence of symptoms.
- Recovery can take weeks or months, and there’s no guarantee the pain won’t return.
- Many people see significant improvement with physical therapy, which avoids the risks of surgery and strengthens the body to prevent future issues.
Before considering surgery, talk to your doctor about all available options. Many cases of sciatica improve without invasive procedures.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy doesn’t just ease symptoms—it targets the underlying causes of sciatica to reduce pain and prevent it from returning. A therapist will create a personalized plan to improve movement, reduce nerve compression, and strengthen the muscles supporting your spine.
- Reducing Nerve Compression – Manual therapy techniques, such as massage, joint mobilization, and targeted stretching, can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce pain.
- Improving Flexibility – Tight muscles in the lower back, hips, and legs can contribute to sciatica. Stretching exercises help increase mobility and decrease strain on the nerve.
- Strengthening Key Muscles – Weak core and hip muscles can put extra stress on your lower back. Strengthening these areas provides better support and reduces irritation to the sciatic nerve.
- Correcting Posture and Movement – Poor posture, improper lifting techniques, and prolonged sitting can worsen sciatica. Physical therapists teach proper body mechanics to prevent strain on the lower back.
- Encouraging Movement – Staying active is one of the best ways to manage sciatica. Low-impact exercises like walking or swimming increase blood flow, reduce stiffness, and help the body heal.
What You Can Do Now
- See a Physical Therapist – A professional can assess your symptoms and create a treatment plan designed for your specific needs.
- Stay Active, But Avoid Overdoing It – Complete rest can make sciatica worse. Gentle movement, such as walking or stretching, keeps the muscles engaged without putting excessive strain on your back.
- Incorporate Daily Stretching – Focus on exercises that loosen tight muscles in the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings, such as knee-to-chest stretches and seated spinal twists.
- Strengthen Your Core – Building strength in your abdominal and back muscles provides stability for your spine and reduces the likelihood of future flare-ups.
- Make Small Lifestyle Adjustments – Avoid prolonged sitting, use ergonomic chairs, and pay attention to posture while working or driving. Small changes can make a big difference.
Sciatica can make everyday activities difficult, but surgery isn’t always necessary. Physical therapy offers an effective way to manage pain, improve mobility, and prevent future issues. If you’re struggling with sciatica, reach out to us—we’re here to help.
