Do you ever get a leg pain and tingling/numbness that travels from your buttock down the back of one leg? This is a common ailment called radiculopathy, or sciatica. Sciatica affects 40% of the population in their lifetime of people between the ages of 25 and 45.
Sciatica can be caused by lumbar spinal stenosis (the narrowing of the spinal canal), degenerative disc disease (the breakdown of discs), spondylolisthesis (when one vertebra slips forward over another), and pregnancy.
Your physician can usually diagnose sciatica with a physical exam and medical history. If you are diagnosed with sciatica, consult with a physical therapist to get a specialized treatment plan for your condition. It will likely include exercises that incorporate a combination of strengthening and stretching.
Strengthening exercises are key to fortifying the spine and its supporting muscles, ligaments, and tendons. By targeting not just the painful areas but also the core muscles that provide spinal support, these exercises improve alignment and stability. Stretching exercises are also typically recommended and are designed to target the tight, inflexible muscles that are the source of pain.
Contrary to popular belief, the best remedy for sciatica is not bed rest, but exercising, such as stretching out your hamstrings and simple aerobic exercises like walking. If you’re suffering from sciatica pain, take action today by finding an ACCESS PT location near you. Our expert therapists can provide personalized treatment and guidance to help alleviate your discomfort and improve your mobility.
