Shockwave Therapy and Sciatica: Can It Help Your Pain?

Pain that travels from your lower back or buttock down your leg can make sitting, walking, working, and sleeping difficult. If you have been searching for relief, you may have heard about shockwave therapy. But is it the right treatment for sciatica?

The answer depends on what is causing your symptoms.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica describes symptoms caused by irritation or compression of nerves contributing to the sciatic nerve, often associated with a herniated disc or narrowing in the spine. Symptoms may include shooting or burning leg pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. An assessment helps identify the likely cause and determine the appropriate treatment.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy uses a handheld device to deliver mechanical pressure or acoustic waves to a targeted area. Focused shockwave and radial pressure-wave devices deliver energy differently, so their research findings and treatment protocols should not be treated as interchangeable.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy begins with understanding your symptoms, movement limitations, strength, and daily activities. Treatment may include:

• Individualized exercises to improve movement and strength.

• Guidance on staying active and gradually returning to daily tasks.

• Education on positions and activities that affect symptoms.

• Manual therapy when appropriate, alongside an exercise program.

Exercise and self-management are central parts of recommended conservative care for low back pain with or without sciatica.

Start With an Evaluation

At TheraPhysical, an evaluation can help clarify what may be contributing to your back and leg symptoms and guide an individualized rehabilitation plan.

Contact TheraPhysical at www.theraphysical.com to schedule an evaluation and discuss appropriate treatment options.