Physical Therapy: An Effective Treatment for Sciatica in Orlando

Sciatica is a condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back, hips, legs, and feet. It occurs when the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body, becomes compressed or irritated. Sciatica can be a result of many different factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. In Orlando, Florida, there are many options for sciatica treatment, but one of the most effective treatments is physical therapy.

 Symptoms of Sciatica

The symptoms of sciatica can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, the most common symptoms include:

·      Pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, legs, or feet

·      Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

·      Weakness in the legs or feet

·      Burning or shooting pain that radiates down the leg

·      Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time

·      Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica can be caused by many different factors. Here are some of the most common causes of sciatica:

·      Herniated Discs: When the soft, gel-like center of a disc in the spine pushes out through a tear in the outer layer, it can irritate the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.

·      Spinal Stenosis: When the spaces within the spine narrow, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.

·      Degenerative Disc Disease: When the discs in the spine start to break down due to age, it can cause the vertebrae to rub against each other, irritating the sciatic nerve.

·      Pregnancy: As the uterus expands during pregnancy, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.

·      Muscle Spasms: When the muscles in the back or legs tighten up, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.

·      Spondylolisthesis: When a vertebra slips out of place and onto the vertebra below it, it can compress the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.

·      Trauma: If the spine is injured, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica.

Physical Therapy for Sciatica Treatment in Orlando

Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for sciatica. A physical therapist can create a customized treatment plan that includes exercises and stretches to help alleviate the pain and other symptoms associated with sciatica.

Here are some of the benefits of physical therapy for sciatica treatment in Orlando:

·      Reduces Pain and Inflammation: Physical therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with sciatica. A physical therapist can use techniques such as ice therapy, heat therapy, and massage therapy to help reduce pain and inflammation.

·      Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion: Physical therapy can help improve flexibility and range of motion in the back and legs, which can help reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

·      Improves Strength and Stability: Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles in the back and legs, which can help support the spine and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.

·      Promotes Healing: Physical therapy can help promote healing by increasing blood flow to the affected area, which can help reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new, healthy tissue.