Sciatica is known as lower back pain and discomfort that runs along the sciatic nerve. Most often, sciatica affects only one side of the body. Pain caused by sciatica can be severe; however, it can typically be resolved with non-operative treatments such as physical therapy, limited bed rest, and medicines. If you are experiencing pain caused by sciatica, you should consider contacting Free Body Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment. Our back pain specialist in Chicago will evaluate your condition and create the perfect treatment plan for you.
What Are Some Sciatica Symptoms?
A symptom that is most commonly caused by sciatica is pain that radiates from your lower spine down to your glutes and travels down your leg. Pain can range from a feeling of mild discomfort to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating pain. The problem can worsen with quick sudden actions such as coughing or sneezing. Some people also experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the affected leg. Many individuals may also experience pain in one area of their leg but numbness in another part.
Causes of Sciatica
The main cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in your spine. Another cause is an overgrowth of bone on your vertebrae. Both overgrowths of the bone and a herniated disc cause the sciatic nerve to become pinched. Another possible cause of sciatica is when the nerve is compressed by a tumor or damaged by a disease such as diabetes.
Risk Factors
There are multiple risk factors that can lead to the beginning of sciatica. Those key risk factors include:
- Age- age-related changes in the spine can cause herniated disks and bone spurs that lead to sciatica.
- Obesity- causes increased stress on the spine and can contribute to spinal changes that trigger sciatica.
- Occupation- jobs that require you to twist your back, carry heavy loads, or drive for long periods may play a role in causing sciatica.
- Prolonged sitting- individuals that sit for long periods of time or live a sedentary lifestyle are more likely to develop sciatica than people who live very active lifestyles.
- Diabetes- increases your risk of nerve damage.
It is vital that you play your part in helping to mitigate your risk of sciatica. Preventing sciatica can be done through exercising, focusing on maintaining good posture, and using good body mechanics.
How Our Back Pain Specialist in Chicago Can Help
Physical therapy is the most common treatment for easing sciatica pain and preventing it in the future. After an evaluation physical therapists can develop a stretching and exercise routine that will help to improve your posture and take the pressure off of your sciatic nerve.
Contact Our Back Pain Specialist in Chicago
Free Body Physical Therapy can help tackle your sciatica pain that you’re experiencing. Our office treats various ailments and offers sports rehab and pre and post-surgery rehabilitation as well. Our skill team of therapists can help you through the whole process and will do our best to assure you stay injury free! If you are looking for a back pain specialist in Chicago, our team at Free Body Physical Therapy has the tools to help you feel better than ever. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.