If you’re experiencing pain, tingling, or numbness in your lower back and down one leg, you are probably suffering from sciatica. This is a common condition that can cause a lot of discomfort, especially if left untreated. In this blog post, we will discuss the seven warning signs that you might have sciatica and what to do about it. We’ll also explain how physiotherapy can help to relieve your symptoms and get you back to feeling like yourself again!
How do I know if I have sciatica?
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to contact your spinal physiotherapist:
– Persistent pain in your lower back or down one leg
– Numbness or tingling in your leg or foot
– Weakness in your leg or foot
– Difficulty moving your leg or foot
– Pain that is deep in the buttocks
– Pain and stiffness that is worse in the morning
– Pain in your leg when bending forwards
What is causing my sciatica?
There are a few different things that could be causing your sciatica, but contrary to popular opinion and what most of the internet will tell you, the most common cause is not a herniated disc. In reality the most common cause is referred pain from the lower back or gluteal muscles. In summary though, sciatica us caused by pressure being placed on the sciatic nerve. Other causes include:
– Piriformis syndrome: This is when the piriformis muscle, which is a small muscle in your buttocks, spasms and puts pressure on your sciatic nerve.
– Spondylolisthesis: This is when one of the vertebrae in your spine can slightly move and puts pressure on your sciatic nerve.
– Pregnancy: This is because the growing baby can put pressure on the mother’s pelvis and sciatic nerve.
– Trauma: This can happen if you fall or are in a car accident and bruise or fracture your hip, pelvis, or spine.
What are the risks of leaving sciatica?
If you’re suffering from sciatica, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. This is because the longer you leave it, the greater the risk of developing chronic back pain. Sciatica can also lead to other problems such as muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and difficulty walking. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t delay in seeking help from a Northern Beaches physiotherapist.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy is the most effective treatment for sciatica. Our experienced team at Fixio Physio Dee Why will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that includes exercises, stretches, and manual therapy. We’ll also give you advice on how to manage your pain and prevent further injury. The key, naturally, is to decrease the pressure that is being placed on the sciatic nerve. A musculoskeletal physiotherapist will be able to identify what structures are compressing the nerve and how best to alleviate this pressure.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, don’t wait any longer to seek help. Contact our team at Fixio Physio Dee Why today to book an appointment.
