Physical therapy for sciatica
Sciatica — that sharp, shooting pain from your lower back down your leg — can be debilitating. A licensed PT can identify what's compressing the nerve, build a targeted plan to relieve the pain, and help you prevent it from coming back. All from home, covered by your insurance.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It's usually caused by a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis compressing part of the nerve. The pain can range from a mild ache to sharp, burning, or excruciating discomfort. Most cases resolve with conservative treatment like physical therapy within several weeks.
Common symptoms
- Sharp or burning pain from low back into the leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Pain on one side of the body
- Difficulty standing up from sitting
- Electric shock-like sensations
- Pain that improves with walking
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is most commonly caused by a herniated or bulging disc pressing on the sciatic nerve. Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), piriformis syndrome, and degenerative disc disease are other common causes. Prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, and sudden twisting movements can trigger episodes.
How physical therapy helps with sciatica
Evaluation. Your PT identifies the source of nerve compression through specific movement tests, strength assessment, and detailed history-taking — all over video.
Treatment. Treatment focuses on reducing nerve irritation through specific positions and movements, strengthening the core and hip muscles to support the spine, and progressively returning you to normal activities. Nerve gliding exercises help restore nerve mobility.
Ongoing support. Between visits, message your PT about pain levels, exercise tolerance, or any changes in symptoms. The program is adjusted as your nerve irritation decreases.
What to expect
Your first visit is about 60 minutes over video. Your PT will determine what's causing your sciatica and give you exercises to start reducing the pain immediately. Most patients see significant improvement within 4-8 weeks.
Insurance accepted for sciatica
Physical therapy for sciatica is covered by most major insurance plans. You pay your normal copay — nothing extra for telehealth visits.
MedicareBlue Shield of CaliforniaAnthem Blue CrossCignaAetnaUnitedHealthcareHumanaTRICARE
Don't see your plan? Check your coverage — we accept many more.
Home visits for sciatica
In Los Angeles, Ventura, and San Diego counties, a licensed physical therapist can also come to your home. In-home physical therapy for sciatica lists the physical therapists who treat it and the neighborhoods they drive to.