How McKenzie Side Glides Can Help Your Disc Herniation and Sciatica

If you're dealing with the sharp, radiating pain of sciatica, often stemming from a disc herniation in your lower back, you know how disruptive it can be. Simple movements become a struggle, and finding comfort feels impossible. At Tennessee Back Pain Center in Murfreesboro, we help patients navigate these challenging conditions with effective, non-invasive chiropractic care. One powerful tool in our arsenal is often the McKenzie Side Glide exercise.

The McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) is a widely recognized approach that empowers patients to self-manage their spinal pain. A core principle of McKenzie is identifying specific movements or postures that help to "centralize" the pain – meaning the pain moves from the leg or arm back towards the spine, indicating that the pressure on the nerve is being reduced.

For disc herniations and sciatica, particularly when a lateral shift is present, the McKenzie Side Glide is an incredibly valuable exercise.

How the McKenzie Side Glide Works:

The side glide exercise aims to gently push the disc material away from the nerve it's compressing. By carefully shifting your spine laterally (sideways), you can create a "traction" effect that encourages the disc to move back into a more favorable position, taking pressure off the sciatic nerve.

Key things to remember:

▪ Centralization is Key: As you perform the exercise, pay close attention to your symptoms. The goal is for the leg pain to decrease or move closer to your back (centralization). If your leg pain worsens, stop and consult your chiropractor.

▪ Consistency: McKenzie exercises are often most effective when performed frequently throughout the day, as prescribed by your practitioner.

▪ Guidance is Crucial: While these exercises can be self-managed, it's vital to have a chiropractor assess your specific condition to ensure the side glide (or other McKenzie exercises) is appropriate and to teach you the correct technique. Improper execution can exacerbate your symptoms.

If you're suffering from the debilitating pain of a disc herniation or sciatica, don't just live with it. Contact us at (615)-900-5187 or visit our website at www.tennesseebackpaincenter.com to schedule a consultation at Tennessee Back Pain Center in Murfreesboro, TN. We're here to help you find lasting relief and get back to living your life to the fullest!