Back pain is a common problem that will lead many people to seek treatment at least once in their life. While there are many different types and causes of back pain, sciatica can be a debilitating condition that can interfere with your daily routine. Pain symptoms are often experienced while standing or sitting. Sciatica treatment for back pain is doubly important if you can neither stand nor sit without severe discomfort. But what does sciatica back pain feel like? The answer to that question can help you find effective sciatica treatment.
What is sciatica and what causes it?
The sciatic nerve originates in the lower back and runs down each leg. While the majority of back pain is cause by a strain or overexertion of the back muscles, sciatic pain is caused when damage or extra pressure is put on the sciatic nerve.
Middle-aged adults are most likely to experience this type of back pain and seek sciatica treatment for it. Pregnant women can feel this pain if the uterus puts pressure on the nerve. A herniated disc, which is when the jelly-like substance that cushions the vertebrae leaks from the outer disc, can place pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Patients who suffer from arthritis may develop sciatic nerve pain. Bone growth may put pressure on the nerve causing back pain.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
In addition to lower back pain, there are many common symptoms of what sciatica can feel like including:
- Pain that radiates from the low back, down through the hip and back of the thigh
- Pain concentrated on one side of the body and leg
- Numbness, tingling or a pins-and-needles sensation running down the leg
- Muscle weakness or difficulty walking
- Burning sensation down to the extremities that may persist even while sitting
Can physical therapy help my sciatica treatment?
Physical therapy is an effective option for providing sciatica treatment for your lower back pain. Treatments typically involve stretching exercises or massage therapy to reduce tension and relieve the pressure placed on the sciatic nerve.
Contact us today to set up your initial appointment and go over your sciatica treatment options.