Sciatica and Move Better

“Oh my aching back” is a common phrase which individuals with sciatica use. But what is sciatica? What is the cause of this malady? Treatments for sciatica? And who can I see to get help?

What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is the layman’s term for lumbar radiculopathy. Typically sciatica is caused by the compression of the longest and widest nerve in the human body, the sciatic nerve.  The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back, traverses through the glutes, and then branches out into the back of the legs terminating just below the backs of the knees. The sciatic nerve also controls skin sensations in the feet. When the sciatic nerve root gets compressed and irritated, inflammation occurs, and then pain follows.

When the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed, trouble begins. Pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness can occur in the lower spine, backs of the legs, and feet.  The symptoms are traditionally one-side.

Who is prone to sciatica and what are the causes of this condition?
Sciatica is a condition which affects about 40% of the American population. There are no particular demographics or age restrictions on the “disorder”, which basically means anyone can be afflicted. The most common causes of sciatica include herniated discs, constriction of nerve space, and a general tightness in the hip-joint.

What should I do if I have sciatica?
A Move Better PT is a licensed medical professional trained in treating this painful condition. Move Better PT’s are experienced in both treating the sciatic condition and the abnormality of the musculoskeletal system that caused it. And as an added benefit, it is a condition they routinely treat.

What to expect when visiting a Move Better musculoskeletal expert?
The Move Better experience begins by having our DPT gather background information. Our PT’s will check muscle strength and reflexes subsequently pinpointing the epicenter for problems/pains. A Move Better PT will thoroughly evaluate the condition and then execute a series of tests.  The tests include walking on toes and heels, rising from a squatted position, and raising each leg from a supine position. These tests help the PT determine cause and effect and provide the insight a Move Better PT needs to understand what the musculoskeletal system is doing, what is triggering the pain, and just which nerves are in play. It is during this observation phase that a Move Better therapist begins to put together the program that will be best for that particular patient.

Treatment?
A Move Better PT uses spine manipulation, mobilization, core strengthening exercises, nerve gliding, and/or directional preference exercises and a Home Exercise Program (HEP) to get the nerves out of their compressed state.  As always, all procedures and protocols are supervised and performed, at every visit, by a doctoral level PT.

Because our therapists have the highest credentials, our patients can rest assured that they are getting the best care possible, which means they get back to doing what they love to do better, faster, and safer.

If you have sciatica, are in need of a musculoskeletal expert, and want to discover the Mover Better experience, here is where to look https://movebettertherapy.com/contact-us/