Sciatica in Edmonton: Why It Flares Up and How We Fix It
- Dr. Joshua Konu
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Serving Edmonton patients at Invicta Performance.
Sciatica is a symptom pattern, not a diagnosis. It usually feels like pain that starts in the low back or glute and travels down the leg. It can be sharp, burning, tight, or tingly. The frustrating part is that it often improves, then flares with sitting, lifting, or even sleeping in a different bed.
The good news is that most sciatica improves with the right plan. Even when imaging shows only mild changes, the nerve can still be irritated and reactive. Our goal is to calm it down and then build tolerance so it stops flaring.
Why sciatica flares
Common triggers include:
Long sitting or driving
Training volume jumps
Bending and twisting under fatigue
Sleep changes and stress
Poor recovery
Often, the nerve is irritated, not trapped. Think of it like a sensitive alarm system that overreacts until it settles.
What actually helps
We usually run a two phase plan.
Phase 1: Calm irritation
Reduce the few triggers that spike symptoms
Keep walking and light movement
Hands-on care when appropriate
A small set of exercises that reliably reduce symptoms
Phase 2: Build tolerance
Core and trunk control
Hip strength and endurance
Gradual hinge and squat progressions
Return to lifting rules that keep symptoms stable
Why this works better at Invicta
We can combine Physiotherapy Edmonton and Chiropractic Edmonton so patients get both symptom relief and long-term resilience. That combination is what keeps sciatica from becoming a repeat cycle.
FAQ
If my MRI says no nerve pinch, why do I feel leg pain? Nerves can be irritated by inflammation and sensitivity without a clear pinch on imaging.
Is it normal to flare after travel or a new bed? Yes. That is a common sensitivity trigger while the area is rebuilding tolerance.
Should I rest until it is gone? Usually no. Smart movement and modified training is often better than full rest.
How long does sciatica take to improve? Many cases improve over weeks with a structured plan, but timelines vary based on irritability and lifestyle factors.
When should I worry? New or worsening weakness, spreading numbness, or bowel and bladder changes should be assessed urgently.
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