Back Pain & Sciatica Relief in New York City
What is sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body. It originates in the lower back, passes through the buttock, and runs down the back of each leg. Sciatica refers to irritation of this nerve and is not a diagnosis itself but a symptom of an underlying back condition.
Sciatica pain is often described as:
- Low back pain that radiates down the leg
- Burning or tingling sensations in the leg
- Numbness in the leg or foot
- Persistent pain on one side of the buttock
- Sharp or shooting pain
- Difficulty sitting or standing up comfortably
Common back problems that cause sciatica include degenerative disc disease, lumbar spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and spondylolisthesis.
How common is back pain?
Research shows that nearly 80 percent of people will experience significant back pain at some point in their lives. These are not minor aches but severe sprains, strains, spasms, and range-of-motion issues that interfere with normal function. For many New Yorkers, poor posture, sedentary desk work, and long commutes contribute to recurring back pain episodes.
What are the causes of back pain?
Back pain can result from sudden trauma or repetitive strain. For example, a car accident, sports injury, or lifting a heavy object can trigger an acute episode. Long term poor posture, repetitive bending, and prolonged inactivity also contribute. Additional causes include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Fractures
- Herniated discs
- Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis
- Tumors of the spine
Why does my back hurt?
Most back pain develops from muscle strain, joint irritation, or disc problems. Conditions such as sciatica, herniated discs, or degenerative disc disease are often the source. Poor posture, repetitive strain, or sports injuries can aggravate the problem. Our New York physical therapists focus on identifying the exact cause so treatment restores mobility, reduces pain, and prevents recurrence.
What happens if I don’t get help?
Ignoring back or sciatica pain can lead to complications. Pinched nerves may cause chronic numbness, tingling, or weakness in the buttock, hip, or leg. Reduced mobility in the spine and hips may contribute to shooting pains in the knees or difficulty walking. Even if symptoms feel manageable, untreated back pain often worsens and limits overall quality of life.
How is back pain treated?
Our therapists perform a full evaluation that may include spinal alignment checks, muscle strength tests, and range-of-motion assessments. We coordinate care with your physician if needed to ensure a complete treatment approach.
Treatment often includes:
- Therapeutic exercises to restore strength and flexibility
- Postural training and ergonomic education
- Manual therapy to relieve stiffness and improve mobility
- Progressive lumbar spine rehabilitation programs
What are the best exercises for back pain?
Because back pain varies by condition, exercises are prescribed individually. Common therapeutic movements include spinal stretches, bridges, and pelvic tilts. These build core strength, improve spinal stability, and reduce inflammation. At Dynamic Physical Therapy NYC, our staff will guide you through a structured lumbar spine rehabilitation program designed to restore strength, flexibility, and confidence in daily movement.
Get relief from back pain and sciatica
Whether your pain stems from injury, posture, or chronic conditions, our team provides personalized physical therapy care across New York City. With targeted treatment plans, we help patients overcome pain, regain mobility, and return to the activities they value most.