Back Pain & Sciatica
Lower back pain and sciatica are most often caused by muscle strain, disc irritation, or compression of nerves in the lumbar spine. At We Care in Hayden, ID, they are treated with a biomechanical evaluation followed by manual therapy, clinical decompression, and targeted exercise to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore normal movement.
What is back pain & sciatica?
Lower back pain ranges from a dull, persistent ache to sharp pain that limits movement. Sciatica is a specific pattern in which pain travels along the sciatic nerve from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg, usually because a nerve root is irritated or compressed.
Symptoms we commonly see
- Aching, stiffness, or sharp pain in the lower back
- Pain that radiates into the buttock, thigh, or calf
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, bending, or lifting
- Muscle tightness or spasm around the spine and hips
Common causes
- Muscle or ligament strain from lifting or overuse
- Herniated, bulging, or degenerating intervertebral disc
- Nerve root compression (the usual driver of sciatica)
- Prolonged sitting, poor posture, or deconditioning
- Weak core and hip musculature that overloads the spine
How We Care treats back pain & sciatica
Care begins with a movement and biomechanical assessment to locate the actual source of the pain rather than only its location. Treatment then combines hands-on and clinical approaches with a progressive exercise plan so relief is durable, not temporary.
Biomechanical evaluation
A full movement assessment to identify the kinetic-chain and alignment factors driving your pain.
Manual therapy & mobilization
Hands-on techniques to restore joint mobility and reduce muscle guarding.
Clinical decompression
CERAGEM-assisted decompression to reduce pressure on irritated discs and nerves.
Dry needling
Targeted needling to release trigger points and calm referred nerve irritation when indicated.
What to expect
Many patients notice meaningful relief within two to six weeks, though timelines vary with severity and cause. Your plan is reassessed regularly and includes home exercises so you can maintain progress between visits.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a doctor's referral for physical therapy in Idaho?
No. Idaho is a direct-access state, so you can begin a physical therapy evaluation without a physician referral or prescription.
Is dry needling effective for sciatica?
Dry needling is commonly used to reduce muscle tension and referred pain that accompany sciatica. Evidence is mixed and it is most effective as part of a broader plan that addresses the underlying nerve compression.
How long until my lower back pain improves?
It depends on the cause and how long you've had symptoms. Many people experience noticeable improvement within two to six weeks of consistent care.
Will insurance cover physical therapy for back pain?
Physical therapy is billed to commercial health insurance, and our team verifies your benefits before your first visit. Veterans may be covered through VA Community Care.
Related care at We Care
Physical Medicine Evaluation
A 60-minute assessment of your movement, alignment, and mechanics to map a care plan for your condition.
Idaho is a direct-access state — no physician referral needed to begin physical therapy. Benefits verified before your first visit.
One assessment. One coordinated plan.
It starts with one whole-body FutureGuard Evaluation to find the root cause — then a coordinated plan across physical therapy, chiropractic, massage, fitness, and recovery.
No referral needed in Idaho · Free benefits check · Partially covered by insurance, Medicare & VA
Schedule My FutureGuard Evaluation