Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and How Physical Therapy Can Help

If you've ever experienced sharp pain radiating from your lower back down your leg, you might be dealing with sciatica. It’s a common condition, but also commonly misunderstood. The good news? Physical therapy can be a game-changer in relieving symptoms and preventing future flare-ups.

At OrthoRehab, we’ve helped countless patients get back to living pain-free lives without relying solely on medications or invasive procedures. Here’s what you need to know about sciatica, its causes, symptoms, and how PT can help you recover.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in your body. This nerve runs from your lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg.

Key point:

Sciatica is a symptom, not a condition itself. It signals that something is pressing on or irritating the sciatic nerve.

Common Causes of Sciatica

• Herniated or Bulging Disc:
  A disc in your spine slips out of place and presses on the sciatic nerve.

• Degenerative Disc Disease:
  Wear and tear on the spinal discs can cause inflammation or nerve compression.

• Spinal Stenosis:
  Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the nerve roots.

• Piriformis Syndrome:
  A tight piriformis muscle in the buttock irritates the sciatic nerve.

• Trauma or Injury:
  Accidents or falls that impact the spine or pelvis.

• Pregnancy:
  Increased weight and changes in posture can lead to nerve compression.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Symptoms can vary in intensity, but common signs include:

• Sharp, shooting pain from the lower back down the back of one leg

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot

• Muscle weakness in the affected leg

• Pain worsens with sitting, bending, or standing for long periods

• Burning or electric shock-like sensations

Pain is usually one-sided, though in rare cases it can affect both legs.

How Physical Therapy Can Help Sciatica

While sciatica can feel overwhelming, physical therapy offers an effective, non-invasive treatment to relieve pain and restore function. At OrthoRehab, our therapists create a personalized plan to address your specific cause of sciatica.

1. Pain Relief and Inflammation Management

• Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and nerve irritation

• Modalities like heat, cold, or electrical stimulation to ease inflammation

2. Targeted Stretching and Mobility Exercises

• Gentle stretches for the lower back, hamstrings, and hips to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve

• Focus on restoring flexibility to key muscle groups that may be contributing to nerve compression

3. Strengthening Core and Stabilizing Muscles

• Exercises to strengthen your core, glutes, and back muscles

• Improved stability helps support the spine and reduce future flare-ups

4. Posture and Movement Training

• Learn proper body mechanics for everyday tasks like sitting, standing, bending, and lifting

• Helps prevent reinjury and promote long-term spine health

5. Education and Self-Management

• Understand your condition and how to manage symptoms at home

• Learn strategies for avoiding triggers and staying active safely

Why Choose OrthoRehab for Sciatica Treatment?

At OrthoRehab, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our licensed physical therapists assess your specific condition, identify the underlying cause, and develop a custom treatment plan that works for you.

We focus on helping you not only relieve pain but also build strength and resilience to keep it from coming back.

Don’t Let Sciatica Hold You Back

Sciatica pain can be debilitating, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Whether your symptoms just started or have been lingering for months, physical therapy can help you feel better and move better—without relying on medications or injections.

Contact OrthoRehab today to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward a pain-free, active life.