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The Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica April Health & Wellness Newsletter
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 Garber Physical Therapy, 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 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.
GarberPhysicalTherapy.com
Spartanburg: (864) 256-4670 | Greer: (864) 964-7026
Our Patients Get Great Results!
“I had my left knee completely replaced and when I was cleared to go to physical therapy, I chose Garber Physical Therapy. I was pleasantly surprised at the treatment that I received there. Starting from the front desk, the receptionist was always a pleasure she made my life very simple after having surgery. I was also beyond impressed with Dr. Ryan (DPT). He made sure that I was always comfortable and made rehab very easy. Last but not least, Amy, the office manager, was always very helpful as well as patient with all of my needs. This was by far the best experience and I truly appreciate the Garber Physical Therapy team for everything, so much so that I will be returning to start rehab on my right knee. I would highly recommend that if anyone is in need of any rehab, you should definitely contact this company because they make you feel right at home.” - Google 5-Star Review
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Our Approach to Assessment and Treatment at Garber Physical Therapy 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 releases, trigger point releases, and other methods to help alleviate pain and allow for more mobility and improved function. 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 Garber Physical Therapy, 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.
Kurt’s Dad Joke Corner
How do priests make Holy Water? They boil the “Hell” out of it!
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/
GarberPhysicalTherapy.com
Spartanburg: (864) 256-4670 | Greer: (864) 964-7026
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas What are you getting your mom for Mother’s Day? If you’re still undecided, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing a gift for a loved one can be difficult; after all, you want to show them how much you appreciate and value them. Don’t worry if you need some assistance this Mother’s Day. We’ve compiled a list of gift suggestions that your mom will love! 1. A new yoga mat or workout equipment Has your mom recently ventured on a fitness journey? Help her stay active with a new yoga mat or workout equipment — perfect for at-home workouts. 2. A book on her favorite hobby Is your mom an avid bird watcher? What about a gardener or an excellent cook? Facilitate her hobbies by getting her a cookbook, an informative book on gardening techniques, or a book to catalog bird species. 3. Sign your mom up for a yoga or pilates class Is your mom under a lot of stress? Activities like yoga and pilates are excellent stress relievers– while also
being great for your physical health. Both forms of exercises deal with breath control and can help your mom release stress in a healthy and productive way. 4. New hiking or outdoor shoes Does your mom love the outdoors? Has she been wearing the same pair of muddy shoes for ages? Help her revamp her style with a new pair of kicks this spring. A comfortable pair of shoes makes a huge difference when deciding between staying on the couch or getting outside to get moving.
Let’s get you better ASAP! Schedule your appointment today!
Spartanburg Location 170 Camelot Dr Suite B Spartanburg, SC 29301 (864) 256-4670
Greer Location 300 N Main St Greer, SC 29650 (864) 964-7026
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Schedule Appointment
GarberPhysicalTherapy.com
Spartanburg: (864) 256-4670 | Greer: (864) 964-7026
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