Sciatica Therapy in Wayne, NJ: PT Strategies That Work Without Surgery
Dr. Rob Letizia PT, DPTShare
Struggling with sharp pain down your leg? You’re not alone. Sciatica affects nearly 40% of adults at some point, often interfering with walking, sitting, and even sleep. The good news: with the right physical therapy plan in Wayne, NJ, most cases improve without injections or surgery.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica isn’t a condition itself—it’s a symptom. It happens when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down your legs, gets irritated or compressed. This can cause:
- Sharp pain radiating from the back into the leg
- Numbness or tingling down the thigh, calf, or foot
- Weakness that makes walking difficult
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing
Common Causes of Sciatica
- Herniated discs: Most common trigger of sciatic nerve irritation
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spine compresses nerves (learn more)
- Degenerative disc disease: Wear-and-tear changes that affect nerve space (DDD therapy)
- Muscle tightness: Piriformis syndrome can mimic sciatica
How Physical Therapy Helps Sciatica
Unlike quick fixes that mask pain, physical therapy treats the root cause. At Spectrum Therapeutics of NJ, we use:
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce stiffness and nerve compression
- Targeted exercises: Strengthen the core, hips, and glutes for spinal stability
- Postural training: Fixing slouched or tilted positions that irritate nerves
- Nerve glides: Gentle mobility drills that restore sciatic nerve motion
At-Home Relief Tips
- Try short walks instead of long sitting sessions
- Apply ice for 10–15 minutes after activity if pain flares
- Use lumbar support when driving or sitting
- Practice gentle stretches like child’s pose or cat-cow
When to See a Physical Therapist
Seek care if you notice:
- Leg weakness or foot drop
- Pain lasting longer than 2 weeks without relief
- Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control (emergency)
Why Patients in Wayne, NJ Choose Spectrum Therapeutics
We provide one-on-one care, personalized treatment plans, and insurance-friendly sessions that actually fit your lifestyle. Many of our patients return to normal activity in just weeks—without invasive procedures.
Ready to Find Relief From Sciatica?
Don’t let nerve pain hold you back. Get a plan designed for lasting recovery at Spectrum Therapeutics of NJ.
Call/Text to book today: (973) 689-7123
Spectrum Therapeutics of NJ – Wayne
• One-on-one care • Most insurances accepted • Same-week openings
• One-on-one care • Most insurances accepted • Same-week openings
