Many people deal with sciatica, which can cause lower back pain that radiates downward. Those who prefer not to rely on pain medication for relief may consider alternative treatments, like physical therapy. Does physical therapy help sciatica?
Here at the Ozzie Smith Center for Regenerative Medicine, we understand that sciatica relief through physical therapy is an option for many in Chesterfield, MO. Here, we share common physical therapy benefits for sciatica pain relief.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Chesterfield, MO, in Supporting Recovery, Mobility, and Pain Management
Physical therapy offers a way for people dealing with chronic pain, reduced mobility, or post-surgical recovery to help their bodies heal. The treatment includes personalized plans that address each patient’s unique needs and limitations. It may consist of manual therapies, guided exercises, education for safe movement, and other modalities that help patients achieve their wellness goals in a safe, effective way.
By incorporating various modalities into a treatment plan, physical therapy in Chesterfield, MO, can help local patients regain their strength, mobility, and flexibility. Although it can help resolve ongoing aches, pains, and discomfort by increasing blood flow to problem areas, physical therapy also supports long-term mobility through movement pattern improvements.
Sciatica: What Is It?
Your sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest one you have. It runs from your lower back, through your pelvic bone, and splits down each leg to your heels.
Sciatic nerve compression, muscle spasms, injury, and inflammation can trigger nerve pain that spreads from your lower back down to your thighs. It can also cause muscle weakness, tingling, or numbness in your legs.
How Physical Therapy Helps Sciatica Pain
Does physical therapy help sciatica? The physical therapy benefits for chronic pain extend to sciatica because the exercises and stretches involved in the treatment help strengthen the muscles, nerves, and joints causing the pain. Resting for more than a day or two may worsen it.
Physical therapy for sciatica management may include one or more of the following:
- Nerve stretching exercises
- Joint mobilization
- Backward and forward bending exercises for healthier spine mobility
- Therapeutic massage
- Gait training to correct poor walking patterns
- Posture and lifestyle modifications
Common Exercises for Sciatica
How does physical therapy help sciatica through movement? It can strengthen muscles, reduce nerve compression, and improve circulation. Exercises for sciatica in physical therapy may include:
- The figure four stretch, which relaxes the hips
- The bridge exercise, which reduces stress on the nerve by strengthening the surrounding muscles
- The hamstring stretch, which helps prevent tense hamstrings in your thighs from adding stress to your lower back
Start Your Recovery Journey Today With the Ozzie Smith Center for Regenerative Medicine
The answer to “Does physical therapy help sciatica?” is yes for many people. Extended rest can prolong or worsen sciatica pain, but physical therapy helps work out the affected parts of your body to minimize aches and discomfort.
Whether you’re looking for a physical therapist for sciatica or a chiropractor for posture improvement, you can find what you need from our trusted professionals at the Ozzie Smith Center for Regenerative Medicine. Contact us today at (314) 200-4955 to schedule an appointment in Chesterfield, MO.
