Can Physical Therapy Resolve My Recurrent Sciatica for Good?

If you’ve experienced the sharp, radiating pain of sciatica, you know how disruptive it can be. When the pain keeps coming back, it’s natural to wonder if you’ll ever find lasting relief.

Ronak D. Patel, MD, and our team at Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute recommend physical therapy as a real solution to stop sciatica in its tracks — for good.

Causes of recurrent sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down through your legs, becomes irritated or compressed. Common culprits include:

Herniated disks
Spinal stenosis
Piriformis syndrome
Muscle imbalances
Poor posture

If you don’t address the underlying cause, sciatica can keep coming back, leading to a cycle of pain and frustration.

How physical therapy can help

Physical therapy (PT) is a highly effective, noninvasive treatment option that targets the root cause of your sciatica. Instead of just masking the pain, PT focuses on:

Strengthening muscles to support your spine
Improving flexibility to reduce nerve tension
Enhancing posture to prevent nerve compression

You also learn proper movement mechanics to avoid flare-ups.

What to expect during physical therapy

Your physical therapist starts with a thorough evaluation to determine what’s causing your sciatica. From there, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that may include:

Stretching exercises to relieve tight muscles
Strengthening exercises for your core and back
Manual therapy to improve mobility
Education in posture and body mechanics

Consistency is key. Most patients see the best results with a series of sessions, along with a home exercise program.

Can physical therapy resolve sciatica for good?

Yes! By addressing the underlying issues, physical therapy can significantly reduce or eliminate sciatica symptoms. Patients who stick with their PT plan and make recommended lifestyle changes often enjoy long-term relief.

In addition, our team offers various minimally invasive treatments for sciatica, such as:

It’s important to meet with Dr. Patel to find the best remedy for your condition.

Tips to prevent sciatica from returning

Once your sciatica is under control, you can keep it that way with:

Regular exercise to maintain strength and flexibility
Stretching before and after physical activity
Maintaining good posture when sitting and standing
Using proper body mechanics when lifting objects

Dr. Patel may recommend other minimally invasive treatments for ongoing relief.

How to break free from sciatica

If you’re tired of living with recurrent sciatica, physical therapy could be the game-changer you need.

Contact Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute to start your healing journey today. Schedule an appointment at the location closest to you in Plainsboro Township, Manalapan, or Freehold, New Jersey. Call or click here to book online.