Our Monthly Newsletter
2024 HEALTHY LIVING NEWSLETTER 2024
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BACK PAIN & SCIATICA
INSIDE OUR NEWSLETTER • Our Approach to Assessment & Treatment at FYZICAL • Patient Success Spotlight
• The Power of a Strong Core in Alleviating Sciatica • Request An Appointment
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BACK PAIN & SCIATICA
and runs through the hips and buttocks down to each leg. The pain you feel could be shooting, burning, or even tingling, and it usually affects just one side of your body. To be a “true” sciatica, nerve symptoms must be felt in the leg (specifically below the knee). Common Causes of Back Pain and Sciatica • Lower Back Pain: In most cases, lower back pain is caused by factors such as muscle strain, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and other conditions. • Sciatica: Most commonly caused by a herniated disc, bone spur where the nerve exits the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compressing part of the nerve. Classic Symptoms of Back Pain and Sciatica • Lower Back Pain: May include stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty in moving. • Sciatica: Must consist of symptoms along the nerve root in the leg and typically include numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot, in addition to pain. It’s crucial to know the difference between the two because the treatment approaches differ. For example, sciatica might require attention to nerve compression issues, while lower back pain could be more muscle-related. So, if you’re tired of enduring persistent pain, take action and call to schedule an appointment with our spine experts. Let us help you understand your condition and guide you toward effective relief.
Have you been told your persistent lower back pain is really sciatica? Did you know specific signs and symptoms can clarify what condition you’re dealing with? Far too often, these terms are used interchangeably or, worse yet, inaccurately. Fortunately, at FYZICAL, our skilled physical therapists can clear it up for you and set you on the right path to relief! Back pain and sciatica can be confusing and even intimidating, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort. Whether from a car accident, lifting something heavy, or seemingly out of nowhere, both back pain and sciatica seem to have similar causes and even share some symptoms. That’s where physical therapy comes in. Physical therapy is highly effective for both conditions. It helps reduce pain, improves mobility, and, most importantly, tackles the underlying issues to prevent future discomfort. With a tailored treatment plan, you can get back to doing what you love, pain-free. Understanding the Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica Back pain and sciatica are sometimes used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Lower back pain is generally localized, affecting the lumbar region of the spine. It can arise from muscle strains, herniated discs, or prolonged poor posture. Sciatica, on the other hand, is more specific and involves pain that travels along the sciatic nerve. This nerve starts in the lower back
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OUR APPROACH TO ASSESSMENT & TREATMENT AT FYZICAL CALL 561.331.5508 TODAY TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT!
• Targeted exercises: Our exercise programs include mobility exercises, proper postural exercises, nerve mobilization, or strength exercises. Our physical therapists will tailor your workouts, monitor you, and progress based on your individual needs. Your well-being is our top priority. At FYZICAL, we offer a proven approach to back pain and sciatica. Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Call today and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
If you are experiencing back pain or sciatica, it’s time to take action. Working with our experienced therapists can help you understand what you are dealing with and, most importantly, how to resolve it once and for all! Whether you come to our clinic with lower back pain or sciatica, we will perform a thorough physical examination and medical history to provide you with solutions that work based on the findings. • Education: Understanding what you are experiencing and how to manage it can help you be proactive and find a solution. Understanding what is going on and, more importantly, what you can do about it is one of the most effective solutions. Our physical therapists will make sure you have the information you need to be successful. • Manual therapy: Manual therapies include a variety of methods, including joint mobilizations and manipulations that move one or more joints within normal ranges of motion to improve spinal joint motion or function. Our physical therapists may also use soft tissue techniques like myofascial release, trigger point releases, and other methods to help alleviate pain and allow for more mobility and improved function.
Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32291226/ • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC5088108/• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6251828/
RECIPE OF THE MONTH CRISPY BBQ TOFU SANDWICH
Creamy Cilantro Slaw: • 4 oz shredded cabbage • 1/4 c cilantro, chopped • 1/4 c red onion, thinly sliced • 3–4 tbsp vegan mayo • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Ingredients: • 1 block tofu- organic, extra firm, drained • 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil • salt & pepper to taste • 1/4 c BBQ sauce • 1 tsp chili paste or sriracha • brioche buns • avocado
Directions: Drain the block of tofu, pat dry, and cut into one-inch-thick slabs. Trim if needed to fit the bun. You can get 2, maybe 3 out of one block. Pat dry again. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil, and sprinkle the salt and pepper over the oil. Once the pepper is fragrant, carefully add the tofu. Sear until crispy and deeply golden- do not move it around in the pan, let it develop a crust, so it will release itself. Lower heat if splattering- this will take about 12 minutes. Mix the BBQ sauce and red chili paste in a small bowl and set aside. Place the shredded cabbage in a medium bowl, add onions and cilantro, mayo, vinegar, and salt, and toss to combine well. Toast the buns and slice the avocado. Once the tofu is nice and crispy, lower the heat to low, and add the BBQ sauce mixture, coating the tofu well. Let it caramelize just slightly in the pan, and turn the heat off. Assemble the sandwich. Spread more mayo on the bottom bun if you like, add the hot tofu, and top with cool slaw and a few slices of avocado.
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PATIENT SUCCESS SPOTLIGHT "The staff has been exceptional in administering techniques needed for my rehabilitation. My improvement is great. The facility is equipped and the staff is pleasant and most helpful." — D.M.
THE POWER OF A STRONG CORE IN ALLEVIATING SCIATICA
If you’ve ever felt shooting pain from your lower back down to your leg, you’re familiar with the discomfort of sciatica. It’s more than just a pain; it can disrupt your entire life. One effec- tive but often overlooked approach to manage and potentially reduce this nagging issue is strengthening your core muscles. At FYZICAL, we’re experts in guiding you through core-fo- cused exercises to find much-needed relief. Why a Strong Core Matters A strong core is not just about having “abs”; it includes mus- cles in your back, pelvis, hips, and even your buttocks. When these muscles are in tip-top shape, they help keep everything in the proper position and working correctly, minimizing the stress on the sciatic nerve and helping you feel less pain and more comfort. Three Common Core Exercises 1. Planks: This is a fundamental core exercise that works your abdomen and the muscles in your back and shoulders. Hold- ing a plank position for several seconds engages multiple muscle groups, enhancing spinal stability. 2.Bridge Exercise: Ideal for working your glutes, lower back, and hamstrings. By lying on your back with your feet flat on the floor and lifting your hips towards the ceiling, you strengthen the muscles that support your back. 3.Dead Bug Exercise: This low-impact exercise engages the core without straining the lower back. Perform by lying on your back with arms extended upwards and knees bent above hips. Lower your right arm above your head while extending your left leg out, return to the starting position, and repeat. Discover the Path to Relief at FYZICAL With a strong core, you’re not just building muscle; you’re cre- ating a support system for your spine. This can lead to better posture, less pain, and improved quality of life. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a more com- fortable, active life.
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Open your smartphone to the camera app 2. Center the desired QR code in the frame (this will take you directly to schedule an appointment) 3. Find a time that works for you!
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CALL 561.331.5508 TODAY!
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