Back Pain & Sciatica in La Crosse
Relieve Back Pain & Sciatica in La Crosse
Whether sharp localized aches or numbness/tingling radiating through the legs, problematic spinal symptoms demand prompt attention before escalating to more debilitating levels. However, determining optimal solutions can feel puzzling amidst conflicting advice.
The integrated care team at O’Brien Physical Therapy & Wellness brings clarity to back and nerve pain relief by pinpointing root causes and then delivering customized, progressive treatment combining gentle hands-on care with self-care education for sustained comfort.
What Causes Back Pain & Nerve Issues?
Herniated/Bulging Discs
- Description: Gel leaking through protective rings presses on nerves, causing irritation and pain.
- Impact: This can lead to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area.
- Treatment: Options include rest, physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.
Sciatic Nerve Compression
- Description: Tension on the lengthy nerve from the lower spine down the leg, often resulting in sharp pain or tingling sensations.
- Impact: Can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.
- Treatment: Physical therapy, stretching exercises, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
- Description: Degenerative stiffness/inflammation in joints linking vertebrae, leading to restricted movement and pain.
- Impact: This can result in localized back pain, stiffness, and difficulty bending or twisting.
- Treatment: Options include, physical therapy, steroid injections, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Muscular Trigger Points
- Description: Overexertion forms hardened spasmed muscle bands, causing localized pain and stiffness.
- Impact: This can lead to muscle tension, restricted movement, and referred pain in surrounding areas.
- Treatment: Techniques such as massage therapy, trigger point injections, stretching exercises, and relaxation techniques can help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Comprehensive Evaluations
Clarifying the precise generators of symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. Our thorough assessment process aims to accurately classify the primary drivers of your discomfort so we can match appropriate therapeutic interventions for lasting relief.
We will perform a series of orthopedic examinations evaluating factors like range of motion limitations, nerve tension signs, localized pain to palpation, and other system testing. Postural assessments analyze usual standing and sitting positions that may be contributing to misaligned spinal structures and muscular strains. Gait evaluations check for limping or asymmetric stance shifts indicating possible muscular imbalances or side dominance related to the painful area. We also review any relevant advanced imaging detailing spinal joint integrity or disc morphology available.
These quantifiable examination findings allow our team to pinpoint the underlying structures involved and the degree to which they are disrupting balance and mobility. This clarity guides the customization of targeted treatment plans.
Restoring Comfort Through Personalized Treatment
We design customized treatment plans that judiciously leverage various disciplined approaches based on your specific pain drivers and lifestyle factors to alleviate discomfort while also shortening recovery timeframes.
With consistent application of the right interventions matched to your unique back pain/sciatica diagnosis, rapid increases in daily function and stamina typically occur. Our supportive team helps guide progression each step of the way towards resumed activity levels.
Pete Schneider
“Jill and her staff are simply the best! I was advised to contact Jill regarding some back pain. I scheduled my first appointment. I was skeptical about doing so because I figured I would be throwing money out the window because I really doubted, she could help. Thank goodness I took the advice from a friend because I was extremely impressed the minute I walked in. Jill took the time to listen to my back issues. She recommended “dry needling” and I agreed to do so. She took the time to explain what she was doing. Later that day, I felt less pain in my lower back. I have continued more therapy and have been incredibly happy with the results. She doesn’t force you to do more than you want. I will continue to be a patient of Jill’s, plus she is super nice, and I have enjoyed every visit with her.”
Polly Berendes
“The team at O’Brien Physical Therapy is knowledgeable, empathetic, and go above and beyond to ensure they are providing exceptional care. I am an active woman in my 40’s – I run about 30 miles a week, bike, and lift weight. I have seen Chelsea and Jill for a variety of things including pelvic health, physical therapy for aches and pains related to running, shoulder and back pain, and runner’s boot camp. Each one goes the extra mile to ensure they understand what my needs are and help me achieve my health goals. I feel so comfortable with anyone at OPT, knowing I will be cared for and able to still do the things I love and remain healthy.”