The Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica
Back pain and sciatica can be confusing and even intimidating, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort. Whether from a car accident, lifting something heavy, or seemingly out of nowhere, both back pain and sciatica seem to have similar causes and even share some symptoms.
Understanding the Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica
Back pain and sciatica are sometimes used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Lower back pain is generally localized, affecting the lumbar region of the spine. It can arise from muscle strains, herniated discs, or prolonged poor posture.
Sciatica, on the other hand, is more specific and involves pain that travels along the sciatic nerve. This nerve starts in the lower back and runs through the hips and buttocks down to each leg. The pain you feel could be shooting, burning, or even tingling, and it usually affects just one side of your body. To be a “true” sciatica,” nerve symptoms must be felt in the leg (specifically below the knee).
Common Causes of Back Pain and Sciatica
Lower Back Pain:
In most cases, lower back pain is caused by factors such as muscle strain, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and other conditions.
Sciatica:
Most commonly caused by a herniated disc, bone spur where the nerve exits the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compressing part of the nerve.
Classic Symptoms of Back Pain and Sciatica
Lower Back Pain:
May include stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty in moving.
Sciatica:
Must consist of symptoms along the nerve root in the leg and typically include numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot, in addition to pain.
It’s crucial to know the difference between the two because the treatment approaches differ. For example, sciatica might require attention to nerve compression issues, while lower back pain could be more muscle-related.
So, if you’re tired of enduring persistent pain, take action and call to schedule an appointment with our spine experts. Let us help you understand your condition and guide you toward effective relief.
Our Approach to Assessment and Treatment at Atrium Physical Therapy
If you are experiencing back pain or sciatica, it’s time to take action. Working with our experienced therapists can help you understand what you are dealing with and, most importantly, how to resolve it once and for all!
Whether you come to our clinic with lower back pain or sciatica, we will perform a thorough physical examination and medical history to provide you with solutions that work based on the findings.
Education:
Understanding what is going on and, more importantly, what you can do about it is one of the most effective solutions. Our physical therapists will make sure you have the information you need to be successful.
Manual Therapy:
Manual therapies include a variety of methods, including joint mobilizations and manipulations that move one or more joints within normal ranges of motion to improve spinal joint motion or function.
Our physical therapists may also use soft tissue techniques like myofascial release, trigger point releases, and other methods to help alleviate pain and allow for more mobility and improved function.
Targeted Exercises:
Our exercise programs include mobility exercises, proper postural exercises, nerve mobilization, or strength exercises. Our physical therapists will tailor your workouts, monitor you, and progress based on your individual needs.
Your well-being is our top priority. At Atrium Physical Therapy, we offer a proven approach to back pain and sciatica. Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Call today and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
Get Back to Feeling Your Best
Return to Atrium Physical Therapy and Let’s Continue Your Journey to Wellness Together. Schedule Your Appointment Now!
Tips for A Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Day!
This year, don’t forget the most important Valentine of all: your heart! With February being the month of love and American Heart Month, here are a few tips to combine them into one fabulous celebration:
- Try a heart-healthy treat: Pomegranate seeds, good dark chocolate, and sweet strawberries are all delicious alternatives to candy hearts.
- Take a ballroom dance class with your sweetheart: Nothing’s more romantic than a sweeping waltz or sultry tango. But ballroom dancing is also a great cardio workout–making it the perfect date night for American Heart Month!
- Sink into a relaxing bubble bath: Stress contributes to cardiovascular disease, so this month, set aside time to rest and relax with a bubble bath. Dim the lights, burn a few candles, and settle down with your favorite romantic read.
Want more healthy heart tips this February–or any month of the year? Schedule an appointment with Atrium Physical Therapy today!
February Word Scramble
lotacehoc
eeanlnitv
bauefrry
iprdinehfs
iwentr
aceornm
Answer Key
chocolate
valentine
february
friendship
winter
romance
Enjoy This Seasonal Recipe!
Valentine’s Day Rose Latte
This Valentine’s Day Rose Latte recipe is a cozy, romantic drink that blends creamy comfort with delicate floral sweetness. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself—or someone you love—to a beautiful and relaxing moment.
- 2 1⁄2 cups Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk
- 1 tbsp + 1 tsp Maple Syrup
- 1 tsp Beet Powder
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 tsp Rose Water
Optional:
- 1⁄2 tsp Ground Cardamom
- 2 Espresso Shots
Add the unsweetened plant-based milk, maple syrup or agave, beetroot powder, and cardamom (if using) to a small pot over low heat. Heat on low for about 5 minutes or until warmed to your liking, stirring frequently. Then take off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract & rose water. Pour the espresso shot into your mug (if using). If you have a milk frother, use it to froth the plant-based milk mixture (this is optional too). Pour the rose milk latte into your mug and top with dried rose petals and an extra dash of cardamom if you like. Enjoy!
Exercise of the Month
SEATED SCIATIC NERVE TENSIONER
Sit in a chair with one foot flat on the ground and the foot on the side you want to work flexed with your toes pointing towards your face. Lift one lower leg by lightly contracting the upper thigh while simultaneously lowering your head, slowly tucking your chin towards your chest and exhaling. Slowly return to start.
3 Sets, 10 Reps. (Materials needed: chair)
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Meet Our Team
Dennis L. Prickett
PT, Owner, Chief of Operations
Anthony Apodaca
PTA, Clinic Lead
Jacob Robles
PT Tech
Anna Marie Robles
Customer Service Representative
Monique Montoya
Customer Service Representative
Leticia Guaderrama
Patient Account Specialist
Philip Montoya
Office Assistant
TJ Mallari
PT, DPT
