If you are experiencing low back pain that you describe as “shooting pain” or “sharp pain,” you may be suffering from sciatica. You might be wondering if there are home treatments that you can try right away and whether physical therapy might help you.
What Is Sciatica?
You have a sciatic nerve on each side of your lower back. If one of these nerves is pinched or injured, you will feel a sharp pain on one side of your back. The pain may stretch down your leg and even to your foot. You might also feel numbness in your foot and leg. You will probably find it difficult to keep up your normal activities of walking, bending, and sitting.
What Causes Sciatic Pain?
This excruciating condition can be caused by many different things such as injuries or spinal conditions. Some of the most common reasons that people develop sciatica are:
- Degenerating Spinal Discs
- Herniated Discs
- Long Periods Of Inactivity (Especially Sitting Down)
- Carrying Heavy Items
- Pregnancy
- Being Overweight
- Injuries
Try These Home Treatments To Soothe Sciatic Episodes
As you seek relief from this agonizing nerve pain, you might try using one (or several) of these simple options:
- Heating Pad
- Ice Packs
- Alternating Heat With Ice
- Sleeping With A Pillow Between Your Knees
- Sitting Or Sleeping In A Recliner
- Warm Baths
- Walking Around Your Neighborhood
- Over The Counter Medications
- Gentle Yoga
When Is It Time To Get Physical Therapy?
Professional therapists can facilitate your recovery. If you want some assistance in your rehabilitation, or if you are experiencing any of the following, it’s time to get some help.
- Home Remedies Are Ineffective
- Pain That Lasts More Than A Week
- Sciatica As A Result Of Injury
- Incontinence
- Limited Mobility
What Types Of Exercises Do Physical Therapists Recommend For Sciatica?
After examining you, your physical therapist will design a personalized rehabilitation program for you. This program will probably include exercises that your therapist assists you in doing in the office, as well as an exercise routine to follow at home. According to spinehealth.com, these exercises might include:
- Backward Extensions & Forward Bends
- Strengthening Exercises
- Isometric Exercises
- Isotonic Exercises
- Learning Safe Lifting Techniques (Functional Retraining)
- Assisted Range-Of-Motion Stretches
- Gait Therapy
Ready To Learn More?
If you are ready to begin recovering from sciatica, we are ready to help you. Centennial Sports & Physical Therapy specializes in outpatient physical therapy for sports injuries, car accidental injuries, and orthopedic patients. We are located in Spokane Valley, Washington. Call our experienced staff to make an appointment today.
