Sciatica
Sciatica is more than just back pain, it's nerve irritation that can cause sharp, burning, or radiating pain down the buttock, leg, and even into the foot. Often caused by compression or inflammation near the lower spine or deep hip muscles, sciatica can interfere with walking, sitting, working, and sleep. While medications or rest may provide temporary relief, long-term results come from treating the source of the problem.
At Sparq Physical Therapy in Castle Rock, CO, we use dry needling as part of a comprehensive orthopedic approach to reduce muscle tension, relieve nerve pressure, and get you moving comfortably again. Each treatment plan is tailored to your symptoms and movement patterns.
Affected Area
Sciatica typically affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from the low back through the buttock, hamstrings, and down to the foot. Common contributors include tightness in the piriformis, glutes, or hamstrings, as well as dysfunction in the lumbar spine, SI joint, or hip.
Symptoms
Symptoms include sharp, burning, or electric-like pain down one side of the leg, numbness or tingling, weakness in the leg or foot, and pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged standing. You may also experience deep gluteal pain or sensitivity to pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Treatments
Dry needling can be especially effective for sciatica when muscle tightness or trigger points are contributing to nerve irritation. At Sparq PT, we combine dry needling with targeted orthopedic rehab for lasting relief. Your treatment plan may include:
Dry needling to release deep muscle tension in the glutes, piriformis, or hamstrings
Manual therapy to improve spinal mobility and reduce nerve compression
Core and hip stabilization to support long-term alignment and movement
Mobility work for the lumbar spine, hips, and lower extremities
Education and movement retraining to prevent flare-ups and support healing
Many patients experience reduced pain and improved function within just a few sessions, especially when dry needling is part of a full recovery plan.