Written by Brooke Burgoyne, Senior Physiotherapist
Are you struggling with sciatica or back pain? These conditions can significantly impact your daily life, making even simple tasks challenging. However, with the right strategies and guidance, you can effectively manage and alleviate your symptoms. Here are three key strategies recommended by physiotherapists:
Targeted Exercise Regimen: A tailored exercise program is crucial for strengthening the muscles supporting your spine and improving mobility. Physiotherapists can prescribe specific exercises to target the affected area, which may include stretches to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and strengthen muscles that help support the trunk. These exercises aim to reduce pain and increase load tolerance. Consistency is essential for maximising the benefits of your exercise regimen.
Manual Therapy Techniques: Manual therapy techniques, such as mobilisation and soft tissue massage, can provide immediate relief from sciatica and back pain. These hands-on approaches are designed to restore mobility, reduce muscle tension, and decrease your pain to allow you to start a rehabilitation program. Physiotherapists employ various manual therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs and preferences.
Lifestyle Modifications and Ergonomic Changes: Making certain lifestyle modifications and ergonomic adjustments can significantly alleviate pressure on your spine and prevent exacerbation of symptoms. Physiotherapists can offer guidance on body mechanics, and ergonomics in various settings, including workplace setups and daily activities. Simple changes, such as using ergonomic chairs, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, can make a substantial difference in managing sciatica and back pain.
Remember, effective management of sciatica and back pain often requires a multifaceted approach that combines targeted exercises, manual therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Consulting with a qualified physiotherapist is essential to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our team of physiotherapists at In Stride Health Clinic are very experienced in treating back pain and sciatica. In Stride Health Clinic physiotherapists provide hands on treatment in our clinic rooms and use our rehab gym, clinical pilates studio and local hydrotherapy pool to support your rehab – this can be individual consultations or small exercise groups. They may refer you to our other team members including myotherapists and podiatrists as needed. With dedication and consistency, you can regain control of your pain and improve your quality of life. Don't let sciatica or back pain hold you back – take proactive steps towards a pain-free future today!
Brooke completed her Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2011 at LaTrobe University. Since then she has worked in private practice both in Melbourne and Ballarat treating numerous musculoskeletal injuries across a diverse range of clients including local sports teams.
Brooke has also completed extra training in Pilates and Hydrotherapy. She also completed her training as a GLA:D Physiotherapist in 2018. Brooke is passionate about using a combination of hands-on techniques, exercise and education to achieve client outcomes.
Brooke has a special interest in neck/back pain as well as sports injuries, women's health, and injury prevention. Her interest in women’s health has increased since becoming a mother in 2019.
