Lower back pain is one of the most common health problems affecting people across all age groups. But sometimes, what feels like “back pain” may actually be sciatica. The two conditions are often confused because of their similar symptoms, yet their causes, severity, and treatments can differ greatly. Understanding the difference between sciatica and regular lower back pain is crucial for getting the right treatment and long-lasting relief.
At CB Physiotherapy in Delhi, our expert physiotherapists specialize in accurately diagnosing these conditions and providing tailored treatment plans. Let’s break down the differences, causes, and best physiotherapy approaches available.
Understanding Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain refers to any discomfort felt in the lumbar region of the spine, which supports much of the body’s weight and flexibility. It may range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with certain activities.
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
· Muscle strain or ligament sprain: Sudden movements, heavy lifting, or poor posture can strain the muscles.
· Poor ergonomics: Sitting for long hours at a desk or incorrect sleeping positions.
· Degenerative conditions: Such as arthritis or disc degeneration.
· Sedentary lifestyle: Weak core and back muscles often contribute to recurring pain.
Lower back pain is typically localized—it does not usually radiate far beyond the lower spine area.
Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica, on the other hand, is not just “back pain.” It is a specific condition caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the human body. This nerve starts from the lower spine and runs through the buttocks, back of the thigh, and down to the foot.
Symptoms of Sciatica
· Pain radiating from the lower back down one leg.
· Burning, tingling, or numbness along the nerve path.
· Pain that worsens with coughing, sneezing, or sitting for long periods.
Common Causes of Sciatica
· Herniated or slipped disc pressing on the sciatic nerve.
· Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal).
· Piriformis syndrome where the piriformis muscle compresses the nerve.
· Injury or trauma to the spine.
· Unlike general back pain, sciatica has a very distinct nerve-related pain pattern and often affects only one side of the body.
Key Differences: Sciatica vs. Lower Back Pain
Feature | Lower Back Pain | Sciatica |
Location | Localized to lumbar area | Radiates from back to leg/foot |
Type of Pain | Aching, stiffness | Sharp, burning, shooting pain
|
Numbness/Tingling | Rare | Common along nerve pathway
|
Aggravating Factors | Prolonged posture, strain | Sitting, coughing, sneezing
|
Cause | Muscular, joint, or postural issues | Nerve compression or irritation |
Understanding these differences can help in early recognition and timely treatment.
Why Physiotherapy is the Best Solution
Whether it’s general back pain or sciatica, physiotherapy is a highly effective and non-invasive treatment approach. Instead of masking the symptoms with painkillers, physiotherapy addresses the root cause and helps restore mobility, strength, and function.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Back Pain & Sciatica
· Pain relief without side effects.
· Improves flexibility and strength.
· Corrects posture and movement patterns.
· Prevents recurrence of the condition.
Personalized treatment tailored to your specific cause.
CB Physiotherapy: Delivering the Best Physiotherapy Treatments in Delhi
At CB Physiotherapy, we combine evidence-based techniques with modern technology to ensure comprehensive care for patients with sciatica or lower back pain. Our team of experienced physiotherapists follows a structured approach:
1. Accurate Diagnosis
Our physiotherapists conduct a detailed assessment, which includes understanding your pain history, physical examination, and special orthopedic tests. This ensures that we differentiate between simple back pain and nerve-related sciatica.
2. Personalized Treatment Plans
No two patients are the same. Depending on your condition, we create customized treatment plans that may include:
· Manual therapy for relieving stiffness and improving mobility.
· Electrotherapy such as IFT, TENS, and ultrasound for pain relief.
· Therapeutic exercises to strengthen core and back muscles.
· McKenzie therapy for disc-related issues.
· Postural training to correct sitting, standing, and sleeping habits.
· Kinesio Taping for support and pain reduction.
3. Advanced Techniques
CB Physiotherapy is equipped with advanced modalities like CRET therapy, Laser therapy, Shockwave therapy, dry needling, myofascial release, and spinal decompression therapy, which can provide faster relief and long-term recovery.
4. Holistic Approach
We don’t just focus on relieving your pain—we emphasize lifestyle modifications, ergonomic advice, and preventive exercises so that your problem doesn’t return.
Why Choose CB Physiotherapy in Delhi?
· Experienced team of specialized physiotherapists.
· Multiple clinics across Delhi for easy accessibility.
· State-of-the-art equipment for advanced care.
· Patient-centric approach with one-on-one sessions.
· Proven track record of successful recoveries in back pain and sciatica cases.
While lower back pain and sciatica may feel similar at first, they are very different conditions that require specific treatments. Ignoring symptoms or relying only on painkillers may worsen the problem over time. The key lies in accurate diagnosis and structured physiotherapy treatment.
At CB Physiotherapy in Delhi, we provide comprehensive, modern, and effective solutions for both sciatica and lower back pain. With personalized care and advanced physiotherapy techniques, our goal is to help you recover quickly and return to a pain-free, active life.
If you’re struggling with back pain or radiating leg pain, don’t wait—book a consultation at CB Physiotherapy today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
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