Back Pain & Sciatica

Overview – What Is Sciatica?  

Sciatica describes a pain that begins in the lower back and travels down the large sciatic nerve through the back of each leg. Many lower back problems can cause sciatica, but luckily there are a wide variety of treatment options. Back pain and sciatica can make everyday activities difficult and painful to perform. If you think you may be suffering from back pain or sciatica, contact Flowers Physical Therapy for an evaluation.

Symptoms & Treatment  

Sciatica is not a medical diagnosis but a series of symptoms. Most of these symptoms are the result of or relate to varying back issues. Some other symptoms include:

• Pain on one side of the leg
• Pain when sitting
• Burning or tingling of the leg
• Sharp pain that makes walking difficult
• Pain that radiates into the foot and toes

There are several conditions that can result in sciatica. Some examples include:

• Lumbar herniated disc
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis  

Irritation of the sciatic nerve can make daily activities extremely painful. Luckily treatment options like physical therapy can help lessen the pain of physical activity and aid in healing. If you have any questions regarding sciatica or back pain, contact our office today.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help individuals regain normal function that would have been lost during sciatic nerve compression and severe back pain. A specialist will work with a patient one-on-one to find a series of stretches that will help heal and lessen the pain of an injury. Physical therapists will also use heat massage and ultrasound to give a patient the most effective treatment possible. We understand the frustration one could feel from constant pain in the back and we work with you to fix the pain with professionalism and empathy. If you suffer from sciatica or back pain, contact our office today!