Physical Therapy for Sciatica in Washington DC
PT Services for Sciatic Nerve Pain
What is sciatic nerve pain
At Release Physical Therapy both of our Washington DC offices and Virginia location treat patients with Sciatica pain. Sciatica, also known as sciatic nerve pain, is a condition characterized by pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve originates in the lower back, travels through the buttocks, and extends down the back of each leg. Irritation or compression of the nerve can occur at any point along its pathway, leading to symptoms that may radiate into the buttocks, back of the thigh, and even down to the ankle or foot. Sciatica pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, burning sensation. It may even feel like a sudden jolt or electric shock. The pain can worsen when coughing, sneezing, or sitting for extended periods. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body. Sciatica is a common condition affecting approximately 40% of individuals in the United States at some point in their lives.
What is the best physical therapy for sciatica?
The treatment approach for sciatica can vary depending on the location of the nerve compression. If the compression is in the spine, our therapists may utilize manual techniques such as joint mobilization, manipulations, trigger point massage, dry needling, laser therapy, mckenzie mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT), postural training, active release technique (ART), maitland techniques and therapeutic exercises. These techniques aim to relieve nerve pressure, improve spinal mobility, and enhance overall function.
If the nerve compression is in the buttocks or extends down the leg, our therapists may employ techniques like trigger point massage, sacroiliac joint mobilizations, dry needling, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, active release technique (ART), Graston Technique, and therapeutic exercises. These methods target the muscles and structures in the buttocks and leg to reduce tension and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
At Release Physical Therapy, our team of physical therapists will provide one-on-one care to ensure that you receive the highest quality treatment. You will always be seen by a doctor throughout your entire treatment, as we do not utilize physical therapist assistants or rehab techs.
How long does physical therapy take for sciatica?
The timeline for treatment typically varies depending on the severity of the cause of the nerve irritation. However, treatment usually lasts ~4-12 weeks, with a frequency of 1-2 visits a week, with adherence to treatment and necessary lifestyle changes for a full recovery.
Sciatica FAQs
Physical therapy is one of the most effective conservative treatments for treatment of sciatica. The sooner you seek proper treatment, the more likely to address the cause of sciatica and avoid worsening or further complications of symptoms. At Release Physical Therapy we offer state-of-the-art equipment that we use in conjunction with traditional physical therapy to improve on healing time and outcomes.
Yes, physical therapy is the most effective conservative treatment for sciatica. It can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the muscles that support the spine and hips.
At release physical therapy, we offer specialized treatments such as Graston, Trigger Point Dry Needling, shockwave therapy, Laser treatment, Posture and Ergonomic assessment, McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), and Active Release Techniques (ART) among others. Our physical therapists work one-on-one with you, dedicating an hour each session to design a specific plan of care and treatments tailored to your needs. This personalized approach ensures that your sciatica is addressed in the most effective way possible, helping you to regain mobility and live pain-free.
Physical therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical solutions for sciatica. At Release Physical Therapy, our therapists will assist you in pinpointing and modifying the activities that contributed to your condition, thereby aiding in your recovery process. Our team utilizes a range of treatment techniques and advanced technologies to manage and reduce your pain and symptoms. Promptly seeking the right treatment can help tackle the underlying cause of sciatica and prevent the worsening or further complications of symptoms.
Both chiropractors and physical therapists can provide relief for sciatica, physical therapy is often recommended as the first line of treatment. Physical therapists use a variety of techniques and modalities to alleviate sciatica pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the muscles of the hips and spine. They also provide education on posture and body mechanics to prevent future episodes of sciatica. Physical therapy aims to address the root cause of the pain and provide long-term solutions, rather than just temporary relief.
The most effective exercise for sciatica largely depends on the location of the nerve compression. If the compression is in the lumbar spine, we often recommend the McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy Method ( MDT), specifically prone press-ups. However, if the nerve is compressed in the buttock or hamstring, we suggest sciatic nerve glides. This exercise aims to gently mobilize the nerve from the position where it’s being impinged, thereby reducing the pain radiating into the leg.
For optimal results, we advise our clients to incorporate both exercises into their routines!
While it may seem counterintuitive, complete rest is seldom the best approach when dealing with sciatica. Instead, modifying your activities to avoid those that exacerbate your pain is key. Maintaining movement is crucial, even if it means altering how you go about your day. For instance, if sitting intensifies your discomfort, we might suggest incorporating more standing time into your routine. The goal is to adjust your activities to minimize pain, not to eliminate activity altogether. At Release Physical Therapy, your therapist will work one-on-one with you to modify your activities not only to promote healing but also to keep you active. Remember, movement is a form of medicine.
There are many things that can exacerbate sciatica symptoms, including:
- Prolonged sitting: Sitting for a prolonged time can put pressure on the sciatic nerve causing increased pain.
- Poor posture and body mechanics: especially while sitting or doing strenuous activities this can put additional strain on the lower back and sciatic nerve
- Carrying things in your back pocket: This has been termed “ back pocket sciatica”. People who carry their wallets or cell phones in their back pockets then sit down with them in their pockets, this causes increased pressure through the buttock muscle which then affects the sciatic nerve.
- Lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle, can lead to weakness in your hips, core, and back muscles which can put increased pressure on the spine and an increase in sciatic nerve symptoms
- Obesity: Excess weight can put additional stress on the spine and its supporting structures, including the discs and nerves. This increased pressure can lead to compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, resulting in sciatica symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.
At Release Physical Therapy, we understand how debilitating sciatic nerve pain can be. It can limit your ability to engage in everyday activities, restrict your mobility, and even make travel uncomfortable due to prolonged sitting. This is why we are committed to helping you alleviate this pain and regain your quality of life. Each individualized needs are different and at Release Physical Therapy our skilled physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to get to the root cause of your problem. We will alleviate your current pain but also equip you with knowledge and exercises needed to prevent the pain from returning.
If you’re currently experiencing sciatica pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. You can schedule an appointment at either our downtown Washington, D.C. office, our West End/Foggy Bottom location or Tyson’s corner office. To book an appointment, simply give us a call or visit our website at www.releasept.com to book online. We’re eager to help you on your journey to recovery!
About Release Physical Therapy
Release Physical Therapy is an award-winning physical therapy clinic, offering the best-in-class physical therapy to the Washington, D.C. area and surrounding communities. We offer flexible appointment times at two convenient locations in our Downtown and West End offices. Don’t wait to feel your best – schedule an appointment online or call our office at (202) 974-6621.
Our Approach
At Release Physical Therapy, we use evidence-based therapies to target the root cause of a condition, not just the symptoms. We offer a full range of treatments, including manual modalities, technology-assisted therapies, and both traditional and non-traditional techniques. We work one-on-one with our patients to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets their unique needs, conditions, wellness goals and fitness levels. Common conditions we treat include:
- Achilles tendonitis
- AC joint injury
- ankle sprains
- ankle fracture
- ACL injuries
- arthritis
- back injury
- back pain
- bursitis
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- cervical radiculopathy
- cervical strains
- chronic pelvic pain
- CL inuries
- compartment syndrome
- degenerative joint disease
- herniated disk
- de Quervain tenosynovitis
- fibromyalgia
- frozen shoulder
- golfer’s elbow
- headaches / migrains
- hip replacements
- ITB syndrome
- scoliosis
- sciatica
- shoulder tendinitis
- spinal stenosis
- spondylolisthesis
- shin splints
- tennis elbow
- thoracic outlet syndrome
- TMJ dysfunction
- wrist fracture
- and several others...
What Patients Are Saying
Physical therapy is about results. Too often, patients discontinue therapy because of a bad experience. At Release Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing the highest quality care through patient education, on-going clinician training, and personalized approach to treatment. We believe that everyone should live pain-free and healthy. But don’t take it from us, read what our patients have to say about their experience with Release Physical Therapy.
Our Physical Therapists
Release Physical Therapy staffs the top physical therapists in Washington, DC. Our experienced and highly trained physical therapists specialize in treating the outpatient orthopedic population, including sports therapy, chronic pain management, orthopedic/spinal therapy, pre/post-surgical therapy, as well as wellness and prevention. Our PTs utilize a wide range of therapies and technologies to deliver a personalized care plan. All of our physical therapists are accepting new patients.
Dr. Cari Simon PT, DPT, CMTPT, ART
Owner & Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Cari Simon received her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Hartford. A former All-New England and All-State soccer player, she was part of the U.S. Women’s Soccer National Team pool, but ultimately decided to redirect her career in pursuit of her true passion: care. She is now one of the top physical therapists in Washington, DC. As one of the most highly regarded physical therapists in Washington, DC, Dr. Cari Simon’s treatment approach combines manual mobilization and manipulation techniques with individualized therapeutic exercise. She is a full body Active Release Technique (ART) provider. Additionally, Dr. Simon utilizes McConnell, athletic, and Kinesio Taping methods, as well as Trigger Point Dry Needle Therapy. When she is not helping her patients meet their physical goals, Dr. Simon enjoys networking with other physical therapists in Washington, DC, outdoor activities and spending time with her family.
Ethan Gramstad PT, DPT, CMTPT
Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Ethan Gramstad is the newest addition to the staff at Release Physical Therapy. A native of Virginia, he has recently relocated to Washington, DC following the last two years of practicing PT in Denver, Colorado. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia where he was a member of the UVA Men’s Rowing team for three years. It was that experience that ignited his interest in the science of exercise, as well as physiology and anatomy. He went on to obtain his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Old Dominion University from Norfolk, Virginia in 2017.
Dr. Gramstad uses manual therapy and mobilization techniques to obtain optimal patient outcomes and places a high priority on establishing a strong patient-therapist relationship. He focuses on assisting his patients in meeting their physical goals and finds satisfaction in the application of individualized exercise programs, as well as dry needling to achieve success. He has previous experience in providing pre and post-operative therapy protocols and treating the outpatient orthopedic population. Besides his rowing days, Dr. Gramstad has personally participated in endurance sports; running Cross Country and multiple marathons and continues to maintain a devotion to a rigorous gym regimen.
Dr. Stephanie Lam PT, DPT, CMTPT
Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Stephanie Lam received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the School of Health Technology and Management at Stony Brook University, after attaining dual degrees in Biology and Psychology from the University of Virginia. She is highly experienced in several fields of adult orthopedics, including post-surgical recovery, acute sports injury rehabilitation, athletic performance improvement, and chronic pain management. She also has a passion for pediatrics and has treated kids of all ages for congenital and developmental issues.
Dr. Lam uses her patient’s individual goals to guide treatment, addressing her patient’s symptomatic impairments while considering their day-to-day ability to function and perform athletic and recreational activities. Dr. Lam incorporates manual therapy throughout her treatments, specializing in extensive deep soft tissue manipulation and mobilizations of the spine and peripheral joints, as well as dry needling.
Deborah Ajala PT, DPT, COMT, CMTPT
Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Deborah Ajala is an astute physical therapist who takes her time to get to know her patients in order to provide the best possible care. Dr. Ajala’s lifelong passion for caregiving led her to a career in physical therapy. She received a Bachelors degree in Health Sciences with a minor in Exercise Science and Wellness Management from the University of Sciences in Philadelphia, where she obtained a Doctorate in Physical Therapy thereafter. Dr. Ajala holds certifications in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) and Trigger Point Dry Needling (CMTPT). Her goal with each patient is to optimize their return to function.
Dr. Ajala previously worked at an Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic in Maryland as a staff clinician. There, she served a diverse patient population treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions including sports medicine, pre/post operative rehabilitation, overuse injuries and several others.
In her free time, Dr. Ajala enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and sports. She also enjoys exploring new DC neighborhoods and is a restaurant enthusiast.
Mia Smyser PT, DPT, COMT, CIDN
Physical Therapist, Pelvic Floor Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Tysons and Washington, D.C.
Dr. Mia Smyser is a native of the DMV. She received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami, after receiving her Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science from the University of South Carolina. She thinks movement is of foundational importance and is dedicated to improving people’s mobility and function and helping them achieve their optimal physical well-being.
She is passionate about continuing to learn and grow in the profession. She is a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT), certified in Integrative Dry Needling and is continuing her coursework with Herman & Wallace as a pelvic health therapist.
Dr. Smyser previously worked at outpatient physical therapy clinics in Washington, DC and Falls Church, VA, treating a wide variety of conditions including sports medicine, pelvic health, pre/post-operative rehabilitation, and pediatrics, among others.
In her free time, she prioritizes spending time with her husband, son & dog; playing soccer and running; coaching HIIT and checking out new restaurants.
Release Physical Therapy Treatments
Our experienced physical therapists have advanced training in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy. Our physical therapy services include sports therapy, injury rehabilitation, pre-surgical therapy, post-surgical therapy, chronic pain management, as well as wellness and prevention. Specialized treatments at Release Physical Therapy include:
Shockwave Therapy
A non-invasive medical treatment that utilizes acoustic waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions and promote healing.
K-Laser Therapy
The use of specific wavelengths of light to improve healing time, pain reduction, increase circulation and decrease swelling.
Dry Needling Washington DC
Needle treatment that decreases pain, increases range of motion and improves strength by inactivating myofascial trigger points.
Active Release Technique in Washington, D.C.
Massage and movement-based technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves.
Therapeutic Medical Massage
Reduces muscular pain and inflammation, relaxes overused muscles, improves posture and movement awareness, and enhances performance.
BFR Training Washington DC
Rehabilitation therapy and performance training technique using a personalized tourniquet system to reduce atrophy and increase strength.
Kineseo® Taping Method
Reduces muscular pain and inflammation, relaxes overused muscles, improves posture and movement awareness, and enhances performance.
Running Assessment Washington DC
Individualized analysis designed to identify strength, gait, and alignment imbalances to prevent injury and improve your current training program.
Functional Training
Exercise regimens that integrate multiple muscle groups, joints and the brain to assist in everyday movement, physical activities and athletics.
Graston Technique
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization used to address soft tissue lesions and fascial restrictions resulting in improved patient outcomes.
Release Physical Therapy Services
At Release Physical Therapy, we treat you with our hands, not just machines. We offer a full range of manual therapies, as well as both traditional and non-traditional techniques for the best in comprehensive care. We work one-on-one with our patients to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets their unique needs, conditions, wellness goals and fitness levels.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Pelvic Floor Issues
At Release Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying causes of your pelvic floor issues and create a personalized treatment plan to promote healing and alleviate the problems you’re experiencing.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Upper Back/Shoulder Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists perform comprehensive assessments to see how they can help with your upper back pain. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Lower Back Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our seasoned therapists perform comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the root causes of your lower back pain problems. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Knee Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our seasoned therapists perform comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the root causes of your knee pain problems. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Ankle Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists conduct thorough assessments to identify the underlying causes of your ankle discomfort. From there, we craft personalized treatment strategies tailored to foster healing and alleviate your unique concerns.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Tennis Elbow Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our seasoned therapists perform comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the root causes of your tennis elbow pain problems. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Arthritis
At Release Physical Therapy, our expert therapists conduct thorough assessments to gain insight into your arthritis symptoms. With this understanding, we craft personalized treatment strategies aimed at promoting healing and addressing your unique requirements.
Release Physical Therapy Locations
Visit Release Physical Therapy at our flagship office in DC's West End, or our Downtown DC office located within Thesis Personal Training.
West End Location
2134 L St NW, Washington, DC 20037
DIRECTIONS
Hours
Mon – Thurs: 6:00am – 8:00pm
Fri: 6:00am – 5:00pm
Sat – Sun: Closed
Downtown Location
*Located within Thesis Personal Training
1401 New York Ave NW, #100, Washington, DC 20005
DIRECTIONS
Hours
Mon & Wed: 7:00am – 4:00pm
All Other Days: Closed
Now Accepting New Patients
Feel Your Very Best
Whether you’re an athlete that plays hard on the field, or a weekend warrior that plays hard in life, committing to a physical therapy program can help to keep you moving forward.
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