Sciatica Pain Rehabilitation Techniques
Don’t let sciatica pain slow you down – Try these proven physical therapy rehabilitation techniques.
Sciatica is most common when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the back of each leg, becomes inflamed or compressed. This can cause various symptoms, including lower back pain, buttock pain, leg pain, and numbness or tingling in the affected leg.
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for sciatica. A physical therapist can help to reduce inflammation and improve the function of the sciatic nerve. This can be accomplished through various techniques, including stretching, strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercise.
One common stretch for sciatica is the piriformis stretch. This stretch targets the piriformis muscle, a small muscle located deep in the buttocks. When this muscle becomes tight or inflamed, it can pressure the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica symptoms. To perform the piriformis stretch:
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground.
- Cross your affected leg over your other leg so your ankle rests on the opposite knee.
- Gently push down on your knee to create a stretch in your buttock.
- Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
Another effective exercise for sciatica is the standing hamstring stretch. This stretch targets the muscles in the back of the thigh, which can become tight and contribute to sciatica symptoms.
How To Perform the Standing Hamstring Stretch:
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips.
- Shift your weight onto one leg and bend the other leg, bringing your heel toward your buttock.
- Keep your back straight and lean forward from your hips, feeling a stretch in the back of your thigh.
- Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
In addition to stretches and exercises, a physical therapist may also use other techniques to help relieve sciatica symptoms. These may include various techniques such as dry needling, joint mobilizations, manipulations, active release techniques, and soft tissue mobilizations.
It’s essential to consult with a physical therapist if you are experiencing sciatica symptoms. A physical therapist can develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall function.