Sciatica Can Make Walking Difficult

Sciatica can make daily activities like simply walking and sitting difficult and painful. Sciatica is a widespread condition that affects ten percent of the population. However, many more people suffer from sciatica-like symptoms, from low back pain to numbness in the leg.

You may have Sciatica if you are experiencing the following:

∙ tenderness to the deep gluteus (buttocks) muscles

∙ numbness, tingling, or pain that travels broadly down the thigh

∙ constant pain that may originate in the low back but travels mainly down the back of the buttock and thigh

∙ pain that feels better when lying down or walking but worsens with sitting

Potential damage can occur to the spinal joints and nerves, so it is essential to see a physical therapist as soon as possible to prevent the risk of this from happening. Visiting a physical therapist will also determine the exact origins of your symptoms so you can get back to standing, walking, and sitting comfortably as soon as possible.

How Can You Relieve Sciatica?

1. Get properly diagnosed by a physical therapist. It is essential to see a physical therapist as soon as possible to prevent the risk of the potential damage that can occur to the spinal joints and nerves.  Other low back conditions can present as sciatica symptoms, so it is vital to determine the exact origins of your symptoms as soon as possible.
2. Alternate heat and ice to the low back and buttock area. Ice helps to relieve inflammation, while heat helps relax muscles and improve blood flow.
3. Stretch your hips, back, and legs. Do exercises to gently stretch your low back, open your hips and stretch your hamstrings. Physical therapy can teach you proper movement patterns to ensure proper alignment.

While Sciatica can be a pain in the backside, it does not have to stay with you. Simple strategies and seeing one of the physical therapists at Comprehensive Physical Therapy can make a big difference in quickly healing and returning to the pain-free activities you love.

If you think you are suffering from Sciatica or are feeling any pain, CALLComprehensive Physical TherapyTODAY,(985) 869-7221, and schedule a personalized evaluation so you can get back to living life PAIN-FREE.