Sciatica is a common condition that affects the sciatic nerve which travels from the lower back and runs down each leg. As the longest nerve in the body, many people suffer from pain due to an irritation of this nerve. The most common cause of this nerve irritation is a herniated or bulging lumbar disc. Pain associated with sciatica can range from a mild ache to excruciating discomfort. It may be a short-term nuisance at first, but sciatica pain can intensify over time. Physical therapy exercises offered by San Antonio spine rehabilitation specialists are an essential component to nearly all sciatica treatment plans.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Before beginning any treatment plan, it’s vital to obtain a diagnosis from your physician. Most cases of sciatica present with similar symptoms, such as weakness, numbness or difficulty moving your foot or leg. Other common symptoms may include pain in the leg or rear that becomes worse while seated. Some individuals complain of tingling or burning down the leg or shooting pains that make it hard to stand. Sciatica typically affects one side of the lower body.
Strengthening Exercises
Certain exercises can help strengthen the spinal column while creating better endurance for supporting ligaments, muscles and tendons. These exercises are designed to work out the lower back, abdominals, gluteus and hip muscles. Combined, these exercises techniques create a stronger core, resulting in pain relief and better support of the spine. Regular physical therapy can help keep the body aligned, reducing your chance of injury.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching exercises are highly efficient in reducing discomfort associated with sciatica. In San Antonio, spine rehabilitation specialists develop treatment plans that target muscles that cause pain when inflexible. Stretching these tight muscles can alleviate discomfort and prevent muscles from becoming overly strained. Patients with sciatic pain are encouraged to follow a long term treatment plan to prevent re-injury and to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Foundation Physical Therapy is your elite physical therapy practice, focusing on injury prevention and treatment through various physical therapy methods. Services include spine rehabilitation, treating overuse injuries and more. Learn more at www.foundationptsa.com.
