Physical Therapy for Back Pain & Sciatica in Brooklyn
The feeling of dizziness, unsteadiness, or disorientation can interfere with everyday life and increase the risk of falls and injury. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to reduce these symptoms, improve balance, and restore safe mobility.
Understanding Sciatica & Back Pain
What Is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, beginning in the lower spine and traveling down each leg. Sciatica occurs when this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, often due to:
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Herniated or bulging discs
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Degenerative disc disease
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Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
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Osteoarthritis of the spine
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Piriformis syndrome (compression from a hip muscle)
This compression can cause inflammation, nerve irritation, and radiating pain into the buttock, leg, or foot.
Common Symptoms of Back Pain & Sciatica
Symptoms may vary, but can include:
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Pain in the lower back, buttock, or down the leg (sharp, burning, or shooting)
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Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
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Weakness in one leg
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Reduced flexibility or stiffness in the back and hips
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Headaches, muscle spasms, or reduced tolerance to sitting, standing, or exercise
Back pain and sciatica often worsen after long periods of sitting or standing, or first thing in the morning.
Risk Factors
Back pain and sciatica are more common in:
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Adults between ages 30–50
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People with physically demanding jobs (construction, nursing, first responders)
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Individuals who sit or stand for long hours
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Those with a history of physical trauma, sports injuries, or auto accidents
People with health conditions like obesity, diabetes, or smoking-related inflammation
How Physical Therapy Helps
Physical therapy is a safe, drug-free, and evidence-based approach recommended by the CDC and other medical organizations for back pain and sciatica.
At NY Manual Physical Therapy, our goals are to:
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Reduce pain and nerve pressure
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Decrease inflammation and muscle tension
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Restore mobility and flexibility
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Improve core stability and spinal alignment
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Build strength to prevent recurrence
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Develop long-term exercise and movement strategies