ReQuest: 4 Quick Ways To Relieve Sciatica

Live Life Pain-free

Health & Wellness Newsletter

NEWSLETTER

Sciatica is a specific type of back pain that is very common. Those diagnosed with sciatica typically report feeling pain in their lower back, legs, or buttocks, as it is a condition that develops from issues surrounding the nerves. Sciatica typically affects people between the ages of 30-50, and it can develop for a number of reasons. Certain conditions can lead to sciatica, such as bone spurs, arthritis, or any injury that affects the sciatic nerve. Injuries can also lead to sciatica, such as herniated discs, harsh falls, sports-related collisions, or anything that occurs gradually over time through overuse, repetition, or general “wear and tear.” Some common signs that you may be living with sciatica include: • Constant pain that may originate in the lower back, but travels mainly down the back of the buttock, thigh, calf, and even the foot. • Tenderness or sharp pain into the buttock muscles. • Numbness, tingling, or pain that travels down the back of the thigh. • Pain that feels better when lying down but worsens with standing, walking, or sitting. Fortunately, sciatica pain can be naturally and effectively treated with physical therapy treatments. This is done through both passive and active methods, in addition to targeted spinal mobilization. To learn more about how we can help relieve your sciatica pains so you can get back to living your life comfortably, contact ReQuest Physical Therapy today! Passive treatments: Passive treatments for sciatica relief may include massage therapy, ice and heat therapies, electric therapy, or ultrasound. All of these different modalities help reduce pain, stimulate blood flow, and accelerate healing. Massage therapy is typically conducted for sciatica relief, as it helps alleviate sciatic nerve pain. It loosens up tight back muscles that may be pressing on the sciatic nerve, and it increases the release of DON’T LET SCIATICA PAIN RUIN YOUR FUN INSIDE: • How Can I Relieve My Sciatica Pain? • Exercise Essentials • Patient Success Spotlight • Healthy Recipe • Have You Met Your Annual Insurance Deductible?

Whether you have back pain or have been suffering for a long time, seeing a physical therapist at ReQuest Physical Therapy can help you return to a more active and pain-free life. Give us a call today:

• GAINESVILLE: (352) 373-2116 • TIOGA CENTER: (352) 692-2131

endorphins for pain relief. Ice and heat therapies are also common, as they help ease pain, relax muscles, and reduce inflammation. Electrotherapy may also be applied, which uses electricity to also aid in reducing pain, strengthening muscles, ramping up circulation, and improving physical function. Active treatments: A physical therapist may use several types of treatments to reduce your sciatica pain and symptoms. Active treatments include motions, stretches, and specific exercises, aimed at reducing pain and accelerating healing. A physical therapist will also teach you different motions that you can do at home in order to manage your pain. If a physical therapist discovers any weak muscles, you will be given corrective exercises for core strengthening. The stretching exercises in physical therapy target muscles that are inflexible and tight. These exercises focus not only on the lower back, but also on the hipmuscles, abdominal muscles, and glutes. All of the exercises you participate in will help strengthen the spinal column (including your tendons, ligaments, and supporting muscles) while also keeping the spine in proper alignment. Spinal mobilization: Spinal mobilization (gentle movements of the spine) are paired with your stretching exercises. Movements of each spinal segment helps to relieve pain while simultaneously increasing the mobility of your spine. Because it is paired with your prescribed stretching exercises, this pain relief method works to last in the long term. Contact ReQuest Physical Therapy today to find out how!

Subscribe to receive our digital newsletters on our website today!

requestphysicaltherapy.com

Made with FlippingBook Learn more on our blog