Sciatica is a type of nerve-related pain that is caused by the pinching of the sciatic nerve between the vertebrae in the spine. Unfortunately, sciatica is a condition that plagues millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, there are some conservative options and lifestyle modifications that can help alleviate the pain it causes!
The sciatic nerve is a nerve that branches out from your lumbar spine, passes under your gluteal muscles, and travels all the day down to your calf. If vertebrae in your lumbar spine become herniated or a bone spur forms that pinches that nerve, this can create symptoms of sciatica, which include: pain, numbness, tingling, severe burning or sharp, electrifying impulses. They can be localized in the gluteal region, or extend all the way down the leg. Its pain can be mild to severe, slightly annoying to debilitating, and treatment varies widely from case to case. There are several factors that contribute to the onset of the condition, including: age, obesity, occupation, prolonged sitting, and diabetes, just to name a few.
You should see a doctor about this condition. While some cases start mild, symptoms can progressively get worse. If untreated, you run the risk of permanent nerve damage. Your doctor can thoroughly examine your specific case, and determine a course of treatment for you!
Tips for Sciatica Pain Prevention
One of the best ways to avoid getting sciatica, as well as many other conditions, is to live a healthy and active lifestyle, with a well-rounded diet and lots of physical activity. Exercise can delay age-related degeneration in the spine, keep your back and hip muscles strong, and keep you from becoming obese! It’s also important to make sure you are stretching your muscles after any physical activity. If your back or hip muscles become too tight, they can shorten, therefore increasing the likelihood of compressing your sciatic nerve and causing pain.
In many cases, conservative sciatica treatment begins with physical therapy, and that’s where the staff at OC Sports & Rehab come in! Our team of specially trained physical therapists are fully equipped with the knowledge and experience to help combat your sciatica. We can show you very specific stretches and exercises specifically designed for sciatica as well as discuss lifestyle modifications that can help you get back to feeling your best! For more information on the specific tools and modalities we utilize in our clinic, check out the “services” tab on our website. You can also learn more about our therapists and other staff. If you or a loved one are suffering with sciatic pain, don’t wait another minute! Give our Foothill Ranch Physical Therapy location a call at (949) 716-5050 to schedule an evaluation. We look forward to seeing you soon!