How to Eliminate Sciatica

Sciatica is a real pain in the butt… literally! Let’s chat today about what sciatica is and how it can be improved.

Sciatica is a global term used to describe hip pain being generated by the sciatic nerve as it enters the back of the hip. This can present as a deep aching pain, a sharpness, or even create traveling symptoms (burning or numbness) down into the back of the thigh and possibly continuing down as low as the foot. 

Sciatica is usually caused by a mechanical imbalance at the hip where the muscles are compressing on the nerve. The nerve could also be having its painful influence coming from the low back, but this would then be classified as something other than sciatica for technical terms. This would also change a treatment plan so that is why it is so valuable to see a physical therapist for an evaluation of this pain to find the root cause of the issue!

So how do we begin treating sciatica? If the hip muscles are the problem, usually a good dose of hip stretching and general strengthening to the gluteal muscles can take you far! As always though, I strongly recommend you seek out a trusted healthcare professional who understands low back pain and sciatica well to get you back on track, moving and feeling at your best!

Have more questions about how physical therapy can help hip pain? I would be happy to chat further about how Loon State Physical Therapy can be your teammate in getting you back to moving and feeling your best! Our physical therapists are conveniently located in Minneapolis in the Linden Hills neighborhood and Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood to best help you get out of pain. Call us at (612) 405-8503 or book with us online at www.loonstatephysicaltherapy.com for an in-person or virtual appointment.

Until next time!

Andrew Eccles

Owner and Physical Therapist at Loon State Physical Therapy