Arthritis and Sciatica

natural ailments

Arthritis and sciatica are common musculoskeletal disorders affecting muscles, joints, and bones

About one out of four adults in the US have arthritis, and sciatica pain affects up to 40% of the global population.

Arthritis is a group of conditions that causes joint inflammation and pain, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common types. Symptoms include joint pain, swelling, reduced mobility, and fatigue. Sciatica is a disorder that affects the sciatic nerve, causing pain, tingling, and numbness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. It is commonly caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. Sciatica has symptoms like pain, weakness, or loss of control in the legs or feet.

old woman touching her wrist due to pain

Sciatica and arthritis have a significant impact on your balance, mobility, and strength

Since sciatica causes pain, weakness, and numbness in the legs, patients who experience this condition often have trouble maintaining stability and walking properly. As a result, they cannot perform certain daily activities that require balance, such as standing, climbing stairs, or even bending and reaching.

Arthritis, particularly when it affects weight-bearing joints like the knees or hips, can lead to joint inflammation, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. This problem can make it challenging to move freely, walk comfortably, and maintain balance. The pain and discomfort these conditions cause can also weaken the muscles surrounding the affected areas, further compromising mobility and strength.

physical therapist massaging a patient's back

Physical Therapy Can Help You Alleviate Pain Produced by Sciatica and Arthritis

Physical therapy is an effective treatment for people suffering from sciatica and arthritis. Physical therapists create customized exercise and stretching programs to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the muscles around the affected joints or nerves.

With sciatica, physical therapy can help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce pain and inflammation. In the case of arthritis, physical therapy can improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness, leading to improved mobility and reduced pain. Physical therapists can also provide education on posture, body mechanics, and other techniques to help manage symptoms at home and prevent further injury and musculoskeletal disorders.