UNDERSTANDING YOUR SYMPTOMS
What this may feel like.
Sciatica is a commonly used term for pain or other symptoms that radiate from the lower back or buttock into part of the leg. People sometimes describe burning, tingling, or shooting sensations, but similar symptoms can have different causes.
- Pain that travels into the buttock or leg
- Tingling, numbness, or a sensation of weakness
- Symptoms that change with sitting, standing, or movement
Pain and movement changes can have more than one explanation. A specific diagnosis requires an individual clinical assessment.
THE EVALUATION
How a physical therapist approaches it.
A physical therapy evaluation may look at symptom patterns, neurologic signs when indicated, movement tolerance, and daily activity limitations. A therapist can also help determine when additional medical evaluation is needed.
You can learn more about Kinesio's approach on the Physical Therapy services page, including information about available treatment techniques.
INDIVIDUALIZED CARE
Moving toward your goals.
Education, activity guidance, and appropriately progressed movement may play a role once the source and severity of symptoms have been considered. Treatment is individualized rather than based on the word “sciatica” alone.
At Kinesio, treatment decisions are based on clinical evaluation rather than a symptom checklist. Explore the listed treatment modalities to see what may be discussed during a visit.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions worth asking.
Is all leg pain caused by sciatica?
No. Leg symptoms may have several possible explanations, including nerve-related and non-nerve-related causes. Evaluation helps distinguish them.
Will physical therapy always be appropriate?
Not necessarily. Your history, exam findings, and any warning signs determine whether physical therapy, medical care, or another pathway is most appropriate.