Back Pain and Sciatica Relief Testimonial
My wife was in need of physical therapy services after her several back surgeries. We selected Border Therapy because of its convenient hours and location to our house…We highly recommend this place to anyone who is need of any kind of physical therapy. Thank you to Angel, Manny and the great staff at Border Therapy for making it a very pleasant experience for my wife.
Norma H.
Back pain and sciatica pain are closely related medical conditions. Many times, sciatica pain is the result of a medical back problem. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body and consists of nerve roots in the lower back and runs through the buttock and down the back of each leg. Portions of this nerve branch out to the thigh, calf, foot and toes. Sciatica nerve pain is often characterized by the following symptoms.
- Low back pain that radiates down the leg
- Leg pain with burning and tingling
- Numbness in the leg or feet
- Continual pain on one side of the buttock
- Sharp pain
- Trouble sitting and getting up
It’s important to note that sciatica is not a medical diagnosis in itself. It is actually a symptom of an underlying problem. And the root cause must be identified for effective treatment. Common lower back problems that can cause sciatica include degenerative disc disease, lumbar spinal stenosis, lumbar herniated disc and spondylolisthesis.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Disc degeneration is a natural process that often occurs as we age. But, for some people it can occur young. One or more degenerated discs in the spine or lower back can irritate a nerve root and cause sciatica. This disease is diagnosed when a weakened disc is exposed. Bone spurs may also develop with disc degeneration and cause sciatica.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis is caused by a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal. It’s also common in the aging process and typically affects those over 50. It can be a result of a bulging disc, enlarged facet joints, arthritis or an overgrowth of soft tissue. Whatever the cause, it can result in back pain and sciatica pain.
Lumbar Herniated Disc
This condition occurs when the soft gel material of the disc leaks out and passes through the outer core. It irritates the sciatic nerve. Sciatica is the most common symptom of a herniated disc. It’s also known as bulging disc, “ slipped disc”, ruptured disc or protruding disc.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis occurs when a small stress fracture causes one vertebrae to slip forward on another. There’s then a disc space collapse. The nerve can get pinched and result in sciatica. Sciatica pain can range from mild to severe.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Back Pain, Sciatica Pain and Low Back Pain
Physical therapy for these conditions is effective and usually has two components: passive and active. Passive physical therapy modalities consist of ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat and ice packs and iontophoresis. Active physical therapy modalities include stretching exercises, back exercises and low-impact aerobic conditioning. Manual physical therapy including spinal mobilizations and or manipulations may be incorporated. Physical therapists typically recommend 20 minutes of dynamic lumbar stabilization exercises per day. Core muscle strengthening is also important in the treatment of back pain. Low-impact aerobics are also important and include water therapy, biking, and walking.
Our experienced physical therapists at our El Paso, Horizon City, TX & Las Cruces, NM centers are here to help you get back on your feet and feeling like yourself again.
Your journey to pain relief starts with a personalized treatment plan.
During your initial consultation, your physical therapist will take the time to understand your unique needs and goals. We’ll conduct a thorough assessment and develop a customized treatment plan just for you.
We’ll work closely with you to help you:
- Drastically reduce pain and improve your overall well-being
- Perform daily tasks with ease and confidence
- Strengthen your back and improve your flexibility
Don’t let back pain control your life.
We’ve helped countless others overcome their back pain issues, and we can help you too. Take the first step towards a pain-free life today.
Contact us to request your one-on-one consultation and full evaluation.
Together, we’ll get you back to doing the things you love!