Sciatica
When pain travels down your leg — modern PT can help most cases resolve.
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — typically from the low back, through the buttock, and down one leg. It's a symptom rather than a diagnosis: most sciatica is caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis irritating a lumbar nerve root. Most cases respond well to structured PT within 6–12 weeks.
Understanding
What is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve forms from nerve roots exiting the lower lumbar and upper sacral spine. Irritation anywhere along that pathway — most often at the nerve root from a disc herniation or arthritic narrowing — produces the radiating pain pattern. Sciatica often comes with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg.
Our PT Approach
How we treat Sciatica
Evidence-based treatment progressed at your pace, with the goal of durable improvement — not just short-term symptom relief.
Typical Recovery Timeline
Most sciatica resolves in 6–12 weeks of structured PT. Severe cases or those unresponsive to conservative care may need imaging and spine specialist consultation.
Therapists who treat Sciatica
Sciatica — FAQs
What's the difference between back pain and sciatica?
Back pain stays in the back. Sciatica radiates down one leg, often past the knee. The presence of leg pain, numbness, or weakness suggests nerve involvement.
Should I be walking or resting?
Walking — within tolerance — is good for sciatica. Prolonged sitting or bed rest tends to make it worse.
How fast will I feel better?
Most patients notice improvement within 2–3 weeks of starting PT. Significant relief usually comes within 4–8 weeks.
Will I need an injection or surgery?
Usually not. About 85–90% of sciatica cases resolve without injections or surgery. Persistent or progressive cases sometimes benefit from epidural steroid injections coordinated with the Axis Orthopedic pain team.
Related Conditions
Herniated Disc
Treatment for disc bulges causing nerve compression, pain, and limited mobility through targeted exercises and manual therapy.
Spinal Stenosis
Programs to improve mobility and reduce symptoms caused by narrowing of the spinal canal.
Low Back Pain
Comprehensive treatment for acute and chronic low back pain through manual therapy, exercise, and movement retraining.
Get expert PT for Sciatica
One-on-one care with a doctor of physical therapy. Same-week new patient slots typically available.