WillowPT_Understanding Your Sciatica and Back Pain

NEWSLETTER Health &Wellness

SCIATICA BACK PAIN MAKING MOVES TO UNDERSTAND

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INSIDE : • 30-Second Self-Test for Sciatica • 7 Summer Safety Workout Tips

• Exercise of the Month • Staff Spotlight

What is Sciatica?

called spinal stenosis. As we age, our backs undergo a lot of stress. This stress takes a toll, causing inflammation in several areas. If this inflammation reaches a certain point, it may compress these nerves — resulting in pain.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Sciatica is pain that radiates alongside the sciatic nerve. This nerve, which branches from your lower back — spanning across your hips, buttocks and legs — can be injured or stressed in several ways. The most common cause of sciatica-related pain is inflammation along the spine, where compressed nerves are aggravated. While sciatica pain can be intense, it is treatable. A lot of sciatica cases, in fact, can be resolved without operation — and within just a few weeks. Even if you’ve suffered severe sciatica spawned from leg weakness, bladder changes or nerve issues, there’s still hope.

If you’re experiencing sciatica, contact a physician immediately. Medical News Today asserts that over-the-counter painkillers may alleviate pain, but in-depth physical therapy is often needed. Physical therapy can reduce sciatica compression by carefully introducing exercises and relaxing treatments. These treatments, hand-picked by professionals, can completely eliminate sciatica over time. If you’re experiencing back pain, don’t wait. Call one of our professionals today, and ask about physical therapy options. Your mobility is important, and your back can be healed. Sources: www.webmd.com/back-pain/what-is-sciatica#1 www.medicinenet.com/sciatica/article.htm www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/ symptoms-causes/syc-20377435 www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7619.php

What Are the Symptoms of Sciatica?

Sciatica back pain is normally noticed as a pain radiating from the lower back. Often, this pain extends to the buttock, spiraling down the leg and extending to the calf. If you’re suffering from sciatica, you might feel the discomfort anywhere along this nerve pathway. The pain itself can be dull, aching or even sharp. In some cases, the compressed nerve may feel like it burns. In other cases, the compressed nerve may simply issue a sharp jolt of pain. Some people experiencing sciatica may experience leg numbness, tingling or weakness. If sciatica isn’t treated, it can hinder mobility altogether.

What Causes Sciatica?

In most cases, sciatica occurs when one of the back’s discs are herniated. It can also happen if the spine narrows — an effect

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