Most back pain is not caused by serious damage, and most people improve with the right mix of movement, strength and hands-on care. When pain travels into the buttock or leg, an irritated nerve root is often involved. That is sciatica. Our job is to find which movements calm your symptoms, which ones provoke them, and build from there.
What does back pain & sciatica feel like?
- Aching or sharp pain across the low back
- Pain, tingling or numbness down one leg
- Stiffness after sitting or first thing in the morning
- Pain when bending, lifting or standing up
- Muscle spasm or a feeling that your back "catches"
What usually causes it?
- Muscle or joint strain from lifting or a sudden movement
- Disc irritation pressing on a nerve root
- Long hours of sitting with little movement
- Weak hips and trunk muscles that leave the spine doing extra work
How can physical therapy help?
- A movement screen to find positions that ease your symptoms
- Hands-on joint and soft-tissue work to reduce pain and guarding
- Graded strengthening for the hips and trunk
- Dry needling or cupping for stubborn muscle tension when appropriate
- A plan for sitting, lifting and staying active at work
When should I get it checked?
If back pain has not started improving within a week or two, keeps coming back, or is changing how you sleep, work or train, it is worth an evaluation.
See a doctor right away if you notice
- Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
- New trouble controlling your bladder or bowels
- Weakness in a leg that is getting worse
- Back pain with fever, unexplained weight loss, or after a major fall
Questions about back pain & sciatica
Should I rest my back until the pain is gone?
Short rest can help on the worst days, but staying in bed usually slows recovery. Gentle walking and the right exercises tend to help pain settle faster.
Do I need an MRI first?
Usually not. Most back pain improves without imaging. We will tell you if your exam suggests you need one and coordinate with your doctor.