The Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica
March 2025 Newsletter
Have you been told your persistent lower back pain is really sciatica? Did you know specific signs and symptoms can clarify what condition you’re dealing with? Far too often, these terms are used interchangeably or, worse yet, inaccurately. Fortunately, at Empower Physical Therapy, our skilled physical therapists can clear it up for you and set you on the right path to relief!
Back pain and sciatica can be confusing and even intimidating, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort. Whether from a car accident, lifting something heavy, or seemingly out of nowhere, both back pain and sciatica seem to have similar causes and even share some symptoms.
That’s where physical therapy comes in. Physical therapy is highly effective for both conditions. It helps reduce pain, improves mobility, and, most importantly, tackles the underlying issues to prevent future discomfort. With a tailored treatment plan, you can get back to doing what you love, pain-free.
Understanding the Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica
Back pain and sciatica are sometimes used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Lower back pain is generally localized, affecting the lumbar region of the spine. It can arise from muscle strains, herniated discs, or prolonged poor posture.
Sciatica, on the other hand, is more specific and involves pain that travels along the sciatic nerve. This nerve starts in the lower back and runs through the hips and buttocks down to each leg. The pain you feel could be shooting, burning, or even tingling, and it usually affects just one side of your body. To be a “true” sciatica,” nerve symptoms must be felt in the leg (specifically below the knee).
Common Causes of Back Pain and Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain: In most cases, lower back pain is caused by factors such as muscle strain, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and other conditions.
- Sciatica: Most commonly caused by a herniated disc, bone spur where the nerve exits the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compressing part of the nerve.
Classic Symptoms of Back Pain and Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain: May include stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty in moving.
- Sciatica: Must consist of symptoms along the nerve root in the leg and typically include numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot, in addition to pain.
It’s crucial to know the difference between the two because the treatment approaches differ. For example, sciatica might require attention to nerve compression issues, while lower back pain could be more muscle-related.
So, if you’re tired of enduring persistent pain, take action and call to schedule an appointment with our spine experts. Let us help you understand your condition and guide you toward effective relief.
Our Approach to Assessment and Treatment at Empower Physical Therapy
If you are experiencing back pain or sciatica, it’s time to take action. Working with our experienced therapists can help you understand what you are dealing with and, most importantly, how to resolve it once and for all!
Whether you come to our clinic with lower back pain or sciatica, we will perform a thorough physical examination and medical history to provide you with solutions that work based on the findings.
Education
Understanding what is going on and, more importantly, what you can do about it is one of the most effective solutions. Our physical therapists will make sure you have the information you need to be successful.
Targeted Exercises
Our exercise programs include mobility exercises, proper postural exercises, nerve mobilization, or strength exercises. Our physical therapists will tailor your workouts, monitor you, and progress based on your individual needs.
Manual Therapy
Manual therapies include a variety of methods, including joint mobilizations and manipulations that move one or more joints within normal ranges of motion to improve spinal joint motion or function.
Our physical therapists may also use soft tissue techniques like myofascial release, trigger point releases, and other methods to help alleviate pain and allow for more mobility and improved function.
Your well-being is our top priority.
At Empower Physical Therapy, we offer a proven approach to back pain and sciatica. Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Contact us today and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
Physical Therapy Triumphs
Real 5-Star Reviews
“The therapists and staff were very kind and friendly. I appreciated their encouragement and willingness to provide guidance to additional information and resources that could be found online. The internet is a big place and it was helpful to know where to look. I would recommend Empower to anyone who needs physical therapy assistance!”
— Mikayla W.
“Empower has changed the way I feel about my overall health and wellness! I love the service I receive and the attention to detail my provider Morgan gives me. Empower has been a wonderful Physical Therapy experience. 10/10!!!”
— Marti G.
Have a physical therapy success story you want to share?
We would love to hear from you. And you may just be the inspiration someone needs to seek help.
Employee Spotlight:
Mary Hui
Mary Hui is excited to return to her hometown of Wasilla to join the Empower Team. She ventured down to the lower 48 for college, attending the University of Minnesota where she played rugby and earned her bachelor’s degree in Parks & Recreation. This allowed her to work seasonally across the country in various roles. Her many summers spent as a hiking guide in Denali National Park opened her eyes to the challenges faced by those unable to fully participate in recreational activities due to physical limitations. This inspired her to continue her education and pursue a career in physical therapy. In 2023 she graduated from Tufts University in Boston with her DPT and is excited to return home to serve her community.
In her free time she enjoys spending time outside with her husband, exploring all this great world has to offer. You might find them out and about hiking, biking, camping, backpacking, kayaking, skiing, and mermanning. She knows how important movement is and the positive impact that recreation has on overall well-being (especially during the cold, dark winter months) and is excited to educate and empower others to optimize their physical health so they can participate in activities that bring them joy.
The Power of a Strong Core in Alleviating Sciatica
If you’ve ever felt shooting pain from your lower back down to your leg, you’re familiar with the discomfort of sciatica. It’s more than just a pain; it can disrupt your entire life. One effective but often overlooked approach to manage and potentially reduce this nagging issue is strengthening your core muscles. At Empower Physical Therapy, we’re experts in guiding you through core-focused exercises to find much-needed relief.
Why a Strong Core Matters
A strong core is not just about having “abs”; it includes muscles in your back, pelvis, hips, and even your buttocks. When these muscles are in tip-top shape, they help keep everything in the proper position and working correctly, minimizing the stress on the sciatic nerve and helping you feel less pain and more comfort.
Three Common Core Exercises
Planks
This is a fundamental core exercise that works your abdomen and the muscles in your back and shoulders. Holding a plank position for several seconds engages multiple muscle groups, enhancing spinal stability.
Bridge Exercise
Ideal for working your glutes, lower back, and hamstrings. By lying on your back with your feet flat on the floor and lifting your hips towards the ceiling, you strengthen the muscles that support your back.
Dead Bug Exercise
This low-impact exercise engages the core without straining the lower back. Perform by lying on your back with arms extended upwards and knees bent above hips. Lower your right arm above your head while extending your left leg out, return to the starting position, and repeat.
Discover the Path to Relief at Empower Physical Therapy
With a strong core, you’re not just building muscle; you’re creating a support system for your spine. This can lead to better posture, less pain, and improved quality of life. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a more comfortable, active life.
Conquer Your Back Pain and Enjoy an Active Pain-Free Alaskan Spring
As the snow melts and Alaska’s landscapes come to life, don’t let back pain keep you from enjoying the great outdoors. At Empower Physical Therapy, we’re here to help you move freely and embrace the season without discomfort.
Our expert guidance will help you:
- Alleviate your pain and prevent future discomfort.
- Regain your mobility and strength so you can enjoy the warmer weather.
- Spend time with your friends and family without back pain standing in your way!
Spring in Alaska is short — make the most of it! Contact us today and take the first step toward a pain-free, active season.
Feel Better by Eating Better!
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
This Crockpot White Chicken Chili offers comfort and satisfaction, courtesy of its creamy texture and healthy ingredients. The slow cooker keeps it breezy and hands-free!
Place chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, white beans, green chiles, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken breasts to a plate. Once cool enough to handle, shred and set aside.
With an immersion blender, puree a portion of the chili to thicken it, leaving some of the beans whole. (If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can instead transfer a few ladlefuls of the chili to a food processor or blender and pulse roughly, then return back into the chili.)
Stir in the shredded chicken and cilantro. Portion into bowls and top with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Add any other desired toppings and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (2-3 breasts)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 (15-oz) cans reduced-sodium white beans such as white kidney, navy, cannellini, or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 (4.5-ounce) cans diced green chiles
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small yellow onion (or 1/2 large) finely diced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Fresh lime wedges
Exercise of the Month
Seated Sciatic Nerve Tensioner
3 Sets, 10 Reps, 0 Hold
Sit in a chair with one foot flat on the ground and the foot on the side you want to work flexed with your toes pointing towards your face. Lift one lower leg by lightly contracting the upper thigh while simultaneously lowering your head, slowly tucking your chin towards your chest and exhaling. Slowly return to start.
Meet Our Team
Andrew Nuesca
PT Technician
Briana Leatham
PT, DPT
Lindsey Wright
PT, DPT
Jacob Pollard
PT, DPT, Founder
Justin Handy
PT, DPT, Partner
Wes Mennear
PT, DPT, Partner
Rachel Stokes
PT, DPT, CLT
Heather Bitgood
PT, DPT
Morgan Borkovec
PT, DPT
Renae Plummer
Lead New Patient Coordinator & Benefits Specialist
Hayley Lincoln
Anchorage Office Manager
Sarah Swanson
Lead Wasilla Front Office Coordinator
Joanne Schultz
New Patient Coordinator & Benefits Specialist
Haley Soares
Director of Administration
Let’s Get You Better ASAP!
Don’t let pain dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility and well-being with our expert support. Start your journey to a healthier you today.
