Back Pain vs. Sciatica: Exploring the Distinction
If you’re dealing with pain in your back and lower extremities, you may have been told you’re suffering from sciatica. But are you really?
People often conflate lower back pain and sciatica, and if you’re in intense pain, you probably don’t care much about what it’s called–you just want relief! But in reality, understanding the type of pain and why you’re experiencing it is crucial in finding a lasting, long-term solution.
Today, we want to share two Maccio Physical Therapy patient stories with you. One patient (we’ll call him Frank) suffered from sciatica. Another patient (we’ll call her Laura) had back pain. By looking at these two stories, we hope you can better understand why distinguishing between back pain and sciatica is so important.
Frank’s Story: A True Case of Sciatica
Frank visited us because his pain was unbearable. He was experiencing it throughout the lower half of his body: in his lower back, through his buttocks, and all the way down to his foot. But it wasn’t just pain. Frank also experienced numbness and tingling throughout his leg, which only alarmed him further.
After learning Frank’s symptoms, we suspected sciatica–true sciatica. Why? A couple of reasons:
- The numbness and tingling indicated a nerve issue
- The symptoms follow along the path of the sciatic nerve, from which the condition takes its name
The next step was determining why. Sciatica isn’t a condition in and of itself but rather a sign that something is impacting the sciatic nerve. After a comprehensive evaluation, including several movement screens, we determined Frank’s sciatica stemmed from a herniated disc in his lower back.
Herniated discs occur when one of the intervertebral discs in the spine bulges or, in rare cases, ruptures. If it irritates the sciatic nerve (the root of which is located in the lower back), it will cause sciatica. In fact, most people with sciatica develop it due to a herniated disc.
Now that we knew the source of Frank’s pain, we were able to create a custom treatment program to strengthen his back and core, helping to relieve pressure on his sciatic nerve as his herniated disc healed.
Laura’s Story: No Sciatica Detected
Laura visited us after her doctor told her she had developed sciatica. She was dealing with intense lower back pain that severely restricted the mobility in her back, making it difficult for her to walk. Sometimes, the pain spread down into her buttocks, too, although it never made it to her legs.
For this reason, we knew it was unlikely Laura had sciatica. Because sciatica affects the sciatic nerve, it always causes radiating pain throughout the lower extremities. She also wasn’t experiencing any signs of a nerve disorder.
However, there was no doubt that Laura was in pain and needed relief! We conducted an in-depth assessment to find out what might be going on. When we took Laura’s health history, we learned that the pain started after she rearranged some heavy furniture in her house. Some additional movement screens confirmed what we suspected: Laura had strained her back muscles.
Fortunately, a mild to moderate muscle strain can usually resolve with physical therapy. We developed a customized treatment plan to help her manage pain and improve her range of motion. As she improved, we began incorporating strengthening exercises.
Personalized Treatment Plans, No Matter the Cause
Although Laura and Frank had two different injuries with different symptoms, their treatment plans looked fairly similar. That’s because physical activity is one of the best ways to resolve sciatica and lower back pain.
We put so much emphasis on identifying the source of your pain so we can develop the right treatment plan for your needs. We offer several techniques to help manage pain and rehabilitate a musculoskeletal injury, such as manual therapy, tailored exercises, and functional training.
At Maccio Physical Therapy, we want to help you live a healthy, happy life–and that starts with resolving any pain and discomfort that might be holding you back. If you’re dealing with persistent pain in your back, your legs, or anywhere else, call us to schedule an assessment today. Our physical therapists are on the case!
Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507908/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542314/
Exercise of the Month
Bird Dog
(Core, Lower Back, Glutes)
Start on your hands and knees on a mat or table. Brace your abdominals and keep your back flat. Slowly raise one arm straight out in front of you while simultaneously raising your opposite leg back behind you until both limbs are straight and parallel with the ground. Lower them back down and repeat with your other limbs. 3 Sets, 10 Reps.
Success Stories
“Before PT, I experienced pain and difficulty getting out of bed, standing after sitting, and getting dressed. Now, I can do all of these things easily and without pain. I have definitely become a true believer in PT and McKenzie therapy in relieving back pain and sciatica and improving back health.” – Peter G.
“Severe pain in the sciatic area after a fall was limiting all of my activities. Working with Matt and the staff, the pain was alleviated after two sessions. Guided exercises for stretching and strengthening followed, and I quickly returned to full everyday activities.” – William D.
Achieving the Ideal Posture
At Maccio Physical Therapy, we understand that your “ideal” posture is based on your unique characteristics and life situation. Rather than compare you to someone else, we’ll help you find the posture that creates harmony and balance in your body.
Here’s an overview of what to strive for with posture:
- Head: Your head should be positioned over the spine. This helps maintain the natural curvature of the cervical spine (i.e., the neck), ensures the head is neither leaning too far forward nor tilting backward, and prevents undue strain.
- Shoulders: Your shoulders should be gently pulled back and relaxed, not slouched forward. This posture opens the chest, allowing unrestricted breathing and optimal circulation.
- Spine: The spine exhibits three primary curves: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back). Good posture ensures these curves remain intact, avoiding excessive arching or rounding.
Our therapists will develop a personalized plan tailored to your unique needs based on the assessment. This plan may include exercises, stretches, and techniques to address specific posture-related challenges.
Healthy Recipe: Anti-Inflammatory Salmon Bowl
Support your recovery with this nutrient-rich meal that helps reduce inflammation naturally.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz salmon fillet
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup steamed broccoli
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Season salmon with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until cooked through. Arrange quinoa as the base in your bowl. Top with mixed greens, steamed broccoli, and baked salmon. Add avocado slices. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce back pain and support nerve health.
It’s Your Choice!
Patient Choice
You have a choice to pick whatever physical therapy provider you wish. It is imperative to do your research in this area to be able to make this important choice.
Direct Access
Most insurance companies will allow you to see a physical therapist first before seeing your doctor.
Why Choose PT First?
“Positive MRI result should not be an indication for surgery unless the history and physical examination were found to be consistent with the MRI result.” (Robert F. LaPrade, MD — Steadman Research Institute)
“There is poor correlation between a patient’s clinical presentation and the reported MRI findings.” (Richard Herzog, MD, FACR — Hospital for Special Surgery)
It is extremely rare that we refer out for X-rays or MRIs with direct access patients, as the MDT mechanical examination is safe, effective, and rules out any serious concerns.
Interactive: Do You Know Your Pain Type?
Get Back to Doing What You Love with Maccio Physical Therapy
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or improving mobility, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We use proven techniques and personalized care to help you reach your goals faster and keep you moving for the long term. Don’t put off feeling your best. Schedule your appointment with Maccio Physical Therapy today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free future.
For 39+ years we have helped thousands of patients get back to doing the things they love.
Greta, Wills, Fritz, & Roberta’s Corner
Our office mascots remind us daily why we do what we do – to help people and their furry friends stay active and pain-free! Whether you’re walking your dog, playing with your grandchildren, or simply want to enjoy daily activities without discomfort, we’re here to help you achieve your goals.
This month, we’re celebrating 39 years of serving the Capital Region as the only Certified McKenzie Spine and Extremity Clinic. Thank you for trusting us with your care!
