Sciatica is often caused by tension in the lower back. The nerves in your lower back branch out and pass through a small opening where your sacrum (tailbone), hip bone, and spine connect.
This is a common area where the nerves can get pinched.
This compression often results from conditions like a herniated or bulging disc, where the cushioning between spinal vertebrae presses on the nerve. Degenerative changes in the spine, such as arthritis or bone spurs, can also narrow the spaces where nerves travel, leading to sciatica. Muscle imbalances, particularly in the hips or lower back, are another common cause. Tight muscles, such as the piriformis, can press on the sciatic nerve, a condition known as piriformis syndrome.
Poor posture, prolonged sitting, or repetitive movements that strain the back can exacerbate these issues. Pregnancy, obesity, and heavy lifting can also increase pressure on the lower back, contributing to nerve compression and resulting in sciatica symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Sciatica?
Sciatica typically causes pain that starts in the lower back and radiates down the buttock and leg, sometimes reaching the toes and under the feet. This pain can vary from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or even excruciating discomfort. It’s often accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg or foot. Some people describe it as a “pins and needles” sensation, while others experience muscle weakness that makes walking or standing difficult. The pain usually worsens with activities like sitting, bending, lifting, or first thing in the morning when you wake up.
Living with sciatica can significantly affect day-to-day activities. Simple tasks like sitting at a desk, driving, or even sleeping can become uncomfortable or impossible. The pain often limits mobility, making it hard to play with kids, exercise, or enjoy hobbies like gardening or sports. Over time, the constant discomfort can lead to frustration, reduced productivity, and even emotional stress, impacting overall quality of life.
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What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating Sciatica?
Our approach involves identifying the root cause of the tension in the affected area. We work to loosen the muscles along the spine, address tension in the hip muscles, and check for issues stemming from weak abdominal muscles or trigger points in the hip flexors.
By addressing these imbalances, we create a customized treatment plan. Sciatica symptoms can vary, including pain in the lower back, hip, or down the leg, sometimes extending to the toes with tingling sensations. The severity depends on the level of nerve compression. Some patients also experience muscle weakness, which can make walking, standing, or even sitting for long periods challenging.
Our treatments focus on releasing tension, balancing the joint by relaxing the right muscles, and addressing other possible causes, such as piriformis syndrome, where hip muscle tension mimics sciatica. This comprehensive approach ensures that we address not only the symptoms but also the underlying issues contributing to the pain.
We use techniques like myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and electrical muscle stimulation. Additionally, we utilize advanced tools like SCENAR therapy, which helps the body identify areas of inflammation, release endorphins for pain relief, and promote healing at a cellular level. Education on posture, movement habits, and strengthening exercises is also part of our strategy, ensuring long-term relief. Our goal is to restore function and help you return to your regular activities pain-free, so you can regain the freedom to enjoy life without discomfort.
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Download Our FREE Report
Are you tired of the burning, tingling, or sharp pain that sciatica causes? Whether it’s discomfort in your lower back, hip, or radiating down your leg, this condition can disrupt your daily life and make even simple tasks feel impossible.
Sciatica doesn’t have to control your life.
Our free sciatica pain report is here to help. Inside, you’ll find easy-to-understand explanations about the common causes of sciatica and why it happens. The report also provides practical tips to reduce pain and tension at home, along with guidance on the most effective treatments to target the root cause of the problem.
Basically, we can help you get back to living life free from the curse of sciatica.
We have over 180 5 star reviews on Google as well as lots of patient testimonials on our site.
If you would like to know how the Physical Therapy team at Spacibo Therapeutic Massage can help you live with less pain – we invite you to start with a completely free, no-obligation, risk free appointment at our clinic: