5 Ways To STOP Pinching Your Sciatic Nerve For Fast Pain Relief!

Most people with lower back, butt/glute (piriformis) and sciatica (sciatic nerve) pain are told all the wrong things: "Just do some press-ups, then some figure 4 stretching, and get that nerve gliding." For some, this random approach works... but for most, it makes them much much worse. And the challenging thing is that because people are told to do these things... they stick with it- thinking that even if it's not working or "hurts so good" that it's just par for the course.
In this video, I share multiple ways that you probably don't know you don't know are pinching (compressing or tensioning) your sciatic nerve and keeping you from healing. This occurs in everyday life with certain movements or positions, as well as in the exercises that you're doing.
And, as you'll learn, if you continue to perform these movements, exercises, and habits- you'll struggle to get better...
#drcharliejohnsonpt #sciatica #stretching #sciaticnervepain #pinchednerve
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• 5 Ways To STOP Pinchin...

[@drcharliejohnson]

Thanks for watching! Want back/butt/sciatica pain relief & to get back to normal naturally using movement as medicine? Click here to set up a time to chat & submit your case for review to see if/how we can help you- www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply

[@yongteikseng]

then what to do ?

[@WhitePelicansareReal]

I just got done with at home PT because I can no longer drive to out patient, because of my “sciatica” radicular pain is so excruciating. He did all of the things you said not too. My QO’L is at zero. The only way I can get some pain relief is to put heat on lower back, butt and lower leg lying flat on my back for at least two hours at a time. I’m a caregiver and it is difficult to get better because I never get rest. Yes I would like to know also, should I lay flat on my back, what is the best kind of chair to sit in? It’s so hard to stay sitting. They want me to have a spinal cord stimulator and I don’t want yet another surgery. Help.

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@WhitePelicansareReal sorry to hear about what you’re going through. Very common unfortunately. If you’re interested in me reviewing your case to see if/how I can help- just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit a formal case review. Okay? Hang in there 👍

[@WhitePelicansareReal]

@@drcharliejohnson Thank you. I am considering it with fervor Thank you for responding. Yes Thank you for the kind words. I’ll look into it.

[@barbarac9369]

Read the title

[@TamaraJoy7]

Man! There are so many things I’ve been doing in this video that have obviously been contributing to my chronic sciatica! This video talked about many different issues and things that other sciatica videos don’t cover., and I’ve watched a truck load! 😝 Thank you so much for providing such a detailed and comprehensive explanation ! It all made perfect sense. I will now be changing multiple things that I do each day.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Tamara- thanks for checking out my channel! Glad you found the video valuable. Let me know if you get stuck and need help. No pressure, but if you'd like some help, I'd be happy to review your case personally to see if/how I may be able to sort this out with you. Just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit details of your specific case if you'd me to review it. Thanks! Dr. Charlie PT

[@angiebutcher4068]

YES YES YES I had sciatica issues in 2021 and I totally believe the Dr and his shots, Chiropractor and his twisting methods made it inflame worse and took a lot longer to heal. Now I am dealing with the other side and doing walking and minimal stretching and to be honest it still aches however with my first round, I was screaming in pain, this time I am just grumbling. Thank you for this video.

[@drcharliejohnson]

thanks for watching- let me know if you're interested in some help! hang in there!

[@amii-y4m]

Everything’s on point! I have back, butt, hip and sciatica nerve pain since 2018😭 I visit the PT once a week for the last 3 months and my symptoms haven’t improved. It’s because they are teaching the wrong ways of mobilizing the nerve. They are telling me to do exactly what you’re telling sciatica patients what not to do! I didn’t know I was aggravated the nerve all along. And I just had a deep tissue massage where the massage therapist dug into my whole body from my back to my calves. I’m in so much pain now. I need to come see you…

[@milsom88ify]

@amy6641 do you have tight hamstrings, I did from biking a lot over the years, never stretched them till just now and all my lower back and butt pain has gone

[@amii-y4m]

@@milsom88ify I’m not sure… I definitely have sciatica nerve pain because it shoots down to my leg, to my calf and to the bottom of my foot. Now I feel numbness as well as tingling on my leg.

[@milsom88ify]

@@amii-y4m try stretching your hams and not your tendens or ligaments

[@amii-y4m]

@@milsom88ify yes, I’ve been doing static hamstring stretches against the wall each night and it’s helping a lot!! Thank you!

[@milsom88ify]

@@amii-y4m that's good to hear

[@michaelvanausdall5968]

What I noticed about this video is quite a few people just don't get it.He says at the beginning that this does not necessarily apply to everybody but you have to try it out and see how it works for you.Everybody's body is different and that's what makes sciatica and other joint issues so tricky to heal.

[@danielspringfield7861]

So you've mentioned all what not to do's but didn't mention the what to do's instead...

[@drcharliejohnson]

Start with the don’ts before you look for the do’s 👍. Or given that I’ve shared what not to do… inverse everything and that gives insight about what to do (do the opposite of what NOT to do 😜)

[@michalynnthompson7996]

😮​@@drcharliejohnson

[@miteshrajpurohit9033]

​@@drcharliejohnsoncould you please suggest what to do ?

[@benderrodriquez2014]

Right?

[@RunningNotStopping]

So the don't exercises are first. So we need the do exercises second. Where is that video please? @drcharliejohnson

[@lindachampney7480]

What a difference supporting the knee AND ankle makes! Thank you.

[@drcharliejohnson]

You're so welcome Linda! Let me know if you get stuck or need more help- I'd be happy to review your case.

[@lindachampney7480]

@@drcharliejohnson I’m about 4 hours from you. Thinking of doing an overnight combo thrifting/appt trip. Always had a a bit of sciatica, then last summer spent 10 hours going up and down a ladder and twisting trying to hand sew rips in an awning. Next morning was very stiff. Dissolved into what a PT here told me was a SI joint issue - one leg was actually a bit longer due to the slippage. Did some PT but seemed to make it worse (as you said, if the exercises make it worse, not good). Pain is to front of thighs, not back of thighs so going up the stairs for instance hurts. Walking makes things better. Sucks getting old - LOL

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@lindachampney7480 hey! Thanks for watching and sharing your story. Sorry to hear about what you’re dealing with. I actually work with people 100% virtually these days - folks all over the world. Would you be open to me reviewing your case to see if/how I can help you? If so, just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, and then follow instructions to submit details of your case (a case review). Sound good? Hang in there Linda! Dr Charlie PT

[@sydneyblum5109]

After intense massage I would be miserable. After doing my sheet of exercises from my PT, I would be miserable and in more pain, same for doing yoga, having acupuncture more pain. This video explains a lot. Additionally, I have gotten into so many positional habits that potentially are creating and exacerbating my butt pain. Trying to be aware and change those. Not easy. Anytime I am tense, worried, angry I find myself instantly tensing up my lower back and butt. Thank you for this insight.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Sydney! thanks for watching and sharing. For sure, easy to get caught in a negative loop... lots of info out there and it can be overwhelming (mentally and physically). Let me know if you're open to some help and would like me to review your case personally. Just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply if you're interested!

[@seinfeldcostanza9433]

For pain in the back and muscle tightness try a really good and deep myofascial release. My back pain for more than a year went away in 1 session. acuatica

[@caseyodonnell55]

thanks its nice to hear another perspective

[@drcharliejohnson]

Thanks for listening!

[@ScottoGrotto]

Good Video, thanks for going through this concept so thoroughly! I tend to picture nerves appreciating good neighbors, ones that don’t press or impinge on them to help keep them in a low firing rate harmony. I work with people using massage including deep release, energy qi healing, awareness body psychology, breathing letting go training. I’ve had some success with sciatica especially if i can track down key bad neighbors and get them to be more open happy types, and or get the si joint to work articulate more naturally. Are you saying that for some people behavior that can lessen circulation may become a problem over time? Or more to improve circulation by avoiding constricting circulation during a healing process? I look forward to going through your video that has a diagnostics tutorial !

[@TheNathanMChannel]

I've been unable to drive comfortably for a month or more. But slouching and leaning my seat back did help with the sciatic pain. It's not a great position for driving though. I went to the dentist and sitting in the chair upright was irritating as hell, but as soon as she leaned me back the pain disappears.

[@drcharliejohnson]

This isn't always the case... but in my experience- an open hip trunk angle (and supported sitting) is generally much more comfy than not. Sounds like your body has a preference for a specific direction of movement. Now, we need to take this a few steps further and begin using this information to inform AND begin testing motions to use as medicine! If you'd like some help- feel free to submit your case for review. Just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit a formal Case Review.

[@mimicoolkat8814]

Your advice to have pillows between our knees and ankles helped ALOT but my fascia muscle has caused additional pain, i have a major cortisol belly, so i have to try to support it with a blanket as well...last night i slept in the recliner all this ongoing pain is too much 😢

[@tw3353]

Went to chiropractor and after a 2-1/2 hour thorough 1st visit found out I have a bilateral pars fracture at the L3 that I’ve most likely had for over 20 years but symptoms/damage has started presenting over the past couple of years to the pint of tears. What had been happening is 30% slippage and leading to the right causing right SI joint deterioration and pain in the joint and sciatic nerve pain. Have been told to do these stretches and no long term relief either. What would you recommend to help?

[@dirtybozackdirtybozack8937]

I never understood why if I had a bulging disc shooting out the back why leaning back would be good. It seemed to me structurally that it would be doing the opposite. But it’s not my field so I kind of just accepted that I didn’t know. But I’m glad I’m hearing this. I’ve been focusing on doing Romanian deadlifts in the gym. Nothing crazy heavy because I don’t want to have a set back. But I’ve been lifting the bar , adding 10 lbs and then 20lbs and the bending over I’ve had no trouble with. It’s giving me the confidence that “yea I’m okay I can do this I’m not severely broken”. Also I’ve tweaked my sleeping over the past few days and realized that laying on my back for me isn’t helping . Laying on my opposite sciatica side with the pillows all the way down to my feet is helping. I feel that during my worst pain it was hard to really know what was good or bad because everything just hurt. Now I’m at a point where I can actually distinguish what’s working and what’s not. Thanks for the video Charlie!

[@drcharliejohnson]

Way to be a detective.. stay systematic and scientific... let me know if you get stuck!

[@stevelaupert7878]

Wow you just named all the stretching exercises I perform. Ive been in Xtreme pain crippled over since 2015. All due from super ill facia and numerous muscle tears in the pelvic, thigh, groin, adductors (inner thigh) glute calf knee. All these tears are from dehydration experiencing Charlie horses to the point of muscles rupturing then laying in bed for close to two years in a bent knee position muscle healing in that position. I had to stretch or re-tear the muscles with tacky facia. The pain was beyond horrific unimaginable pain my body would shake uncontrollably when I tried to strengthen my leg. Today after working with a teeter for three years my left leg will straight only to go back into a bent position. It’s much much better and my posture has improved significantly however, I continue to need these stretching exercises and my left foot points in a abduction-away from my right foot while the right foot naturally tilts addduction (towards the left foot). I have sever pain in my left tfl inner thigh at the origin area, under my left glute, hamstring and both sides of my left calf muscle. It’s been challenging and my recovery takes two or three days lying in bed. Otherwise, I can’t lift my leg to walk. I can only do 2 to 4 hours a day then lay in bed for the remainder of the day. I’ve been to physical therapist and they never seen anything like it. It’s been torture beyond. I couldn’t bend my leg or straighten it now I can but it took 7 years. Isn’t the reason why doctors are called a practice is because we need to try this or that to find the corrective measures? I use a message gun thumb tools Myofascia release balls and rollers all different kinds of gadgets. But watch this if I lay in bed for 3 days and do mild stretches just rest do not use the Thera gun message tools, I can walk for about 40 minutes then I go right back into regression. It’s like my wounds open back up. Yeah I know crazy but it’s true. I’d give anything to be able to walk run jump and jog again. Do you have any advice? Thank you 🙏

[@KingsCountyVideos]

I have a herniated disc at L4/L5 causing sciatica but the weird thing is I have no back pain just a burning sensation in the high and my foot is numb.

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@KingsCountyVideos very common that disc issues cause no back pain and only referred or radiating pain to the butt/leg. What’s your current treatment plan?

[@KingsCountyVideos]

@@drcharliejohnson stretches, PT, acupuncture, I have an MRI. I’m more concerned with the numb foot, ( more so in the toes) I’ve had it for 2 months now.

[@ucilistemirmar]

Wow… thank you!

[@drcharliejohnson]

you're welcome! thanks for watching

[@adventuresofsven2314]

What can I DO for Sciatic Numbness all the way from my left gluteus all the way to my small toe?.

[@DianeDecot]

Any suggestions for avascular necrosis?

[@greg9069]

You don’t drink or use nicotine right? Those are 2 major problems for that. Dietary and health changes are super important.

[@victoriamc.groggan3777]

Great stuff thank you from Ireland 🇮🇪🍀 I’ve had severe sciatica for very long time . I’m going to do your exercises 🤗 🤗🤗. Very hopeful . Wot u tink of acupuncture 🤔. Victoria 💕💕💕

[@prem4302]

The body is trying to heal the sciatic nerve? Or is it trying to get rid of the protruded disc material?

[@datjr67]

Could crossing your legs have effects on peroneal nerve and numbness in feet and weak calfs?

[@drcharliejohnson]

If symptoms are bilateral (both sides) then this is likely a central spinal issue... not an isolated peripheral nerve (peroneal nerve) problem.

[@jacobt5127]

Does sciatica due to disc bulge ever go away? Im in severe depression (im a runner)

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Jacob- Absolutely, it can go away- no question. But you’ll want to follow a process and equip yourself with the right knowledge and understanding. Sounds like you’re a bit stuck and could use some help… would you be open to me reviewing your case to see if/how I can help? If so, just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit a formal “Case Review.” Okay? Hang in the there Jacob! You can get better and will get back to running 👊🏼 Dr Charlie PT

[@CaramelSunflowers]

I have been doing the stretches laying on my back and all it did was anger the nerves, now I have electric shocks and pin pricks in my lower spine so bad I haven't left the house in weeks. I have stopped everything and I am just letting it calm down in combo with muscle cream.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Sorry that typical stretches made you worse (very common). If you get stuck- just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply and I'd be happy to review your case (avoidance may calm things down- but does not return you to full speed). hang in there and thx for watching! Dr. Charlie PT

[@avanellehansen4525]

I fell five years ago. Left SI pain. Ortho surgeo did thoracic abd lumbar fusions. Miserable recivery. Obviously it did not treat the SI pain. Now they want to do a left SI fusion. I seriously can not take any more pain. Im afraid it won't help or could make it worse. I can sit/stand/ walk for about 15 min. What's your take on SI fusions?

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey! thanks for watching and sorry to hear about what you're going through. Given your history- your chance of surgical success is likely very low (probability of success reduces with each subsequent spine surgery... although this is SI Joint area... I'd lump it within the realm of spine surgery). We recently helped a man named Jim avoid SI Joint fusion... and Jackie cancelled her lumbar fusion. I'd need to know more details to give an ultimate recommendation- but statistically SI Joint fusion is likely to offer little relief long term (and, as you mentioned... once somethings fused you can't unfuse it- plus, there are significant risks involved). "Never cut what you can untie" is what one patient once said to me... and I've found that to work out pretty well for most. In other words, I'd be 100% confident you've exhausted natural solutions first before jumping to another surgery. Would you be open to me reviewing your case to see if I may be able to help? If so, just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit a formal "Case Review." I review all cases personally. Sound good? Dr. Charlie PT

[@avanellehansen4525]

@@drcharliejohnson thanks

[@MsSmigger55]

My consultant wanted to do a fusion (lumbar ). Wasn't even listening to where my pain was coming from (Sacroiliac joint). I refused the surgery as I knew it wouldn't fix my pain. I'm now looking for pain solutions and any way I can address this. It's like a nerve keeps trapping in the joint and giving me the pain, then numbness & weakness in lower back and tingling and numbness in feet. It's ruling my life! 😢

[@MsSmigger55]

​@@avanellehansen4525Hi, did you speak to this guy yet?

[@avanellehansen4525]

@MsSmigger55 I'm so sorry. My injury has completely changed my life as well.

[@CocoとLala]

I mean no disrespect at all as you obviously know your stuff but allow me to say that the orthopedic clinic I go to is very good, they do the work for national football teams and more. I had a ct and an xray and yes sciatica and it’s in the hip and especially the calf. In fact it’s non stop pain in the calf. My rehab person does great work along the nerve and always feels better afterwards. I know it’s temporary but it’s releasing the nerve as you know. My point of this story is that I was told today to do the hip stretch (no 2 you showed) and you are saying don’t. So it’s very hard to accept. I know what you are saying but you can’t speak for everyone when you say don’t do this or that as each condition is different. Am I wrong?

[@didactica9326]

Most people are not finding the high quality therapists that you feel you are seeing. Poor quality is everywhere esp for low income people

[@drcharliejohnson]

No disrespect taken. Just because the orthopedic does work for national sports teams doesn't mean they are good per say. Perhaps your clinic is top notch... I can't comment because I don't know who they are. (I used to do some work for some pro sports teams and D1 college teams... and the care was questionable... sometimes its not what you know it's who you know). If symptoms are being modified temporarily... but the problem comes back... then its not the ultimate solution and would be time to change course. The stretches I show you here (and the one you were recommended) is not inherently good or bad... it's a neutral input and your response may be favorable. It requires testing and the result should be immediate. So, how did they test this movement/input to prove that it was something that will be valuable for you? Thanks for watching!

[@kinonui]

what is your advice on chiropractic adjustments?

[@drcharliejohnson]

I used to instruct manual therapy to PT's, chiros, and osteopaths. I've found that teaching people how to move their own bodies is much more effective long term vs. the dependency that is often created by chiropractic adjustments (hands on treatment). Doesn't mean adjustments can reduce pain... but does not teach people what they need to do to be self-sustainable. Therefore, I no longer practice manual therapy and instead teach people how to heal themselves. Just my experience/opinion- good question!

[@pyeyoung8095]

U could be mistaken for ben shapiro's brother 😂😂😂

[@ersofrescht4661]

did I miss the do’s?

[@vesa-nacciloiri2030]

Wasn’t any…

[@drcharliejohnson]

By design. What not to do is more important than what to do for most people. Start with what not to do (healing by subtraction)

[@moreto62]

i dont know ..about this video..to many " maybe " could be " may or may not " ..i do respect you are professional ..i understand i " may have been lead to believe"""" but sounds just you are "another guru" claiming things . Now days You Rube is full with this and every one choose what to believe

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey- thanks for your feedback and watching. Just sharing my experience. No unsupported claims here... One may choose what to believe... but without science to back one's belief- the belief has no backing and doesn't stand. Whether someone chooses to ignore credible evidence or not which supports or refutes their belief.. that's their choice... but honestly, I don't feel this has a place in healthcare when caring for and impacting people's lives by the choices made. The things I "believe" may change as further evidence unfolds... but too much science and evidence exists to believe much other than what Dr. Goobie (and myself) have shared.

[@DeniseMieras]

But…. What SHOULD you do!!!!!

[@NAWYILNO]

It seems like anything you do at all is wrong and potentially causing compression or tension 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@drcharliejohnson]

Sure- many things could potentially be tensile/compressive. But zoom out big picture and avoid the obvious things like I discuss here- not actively or intentionally compressing/stretching and making note of clear times throughout the day where compression/tension is present in your everyday life. Avoid hurt so good treatments and begin doing detective work to find positions/inputs that feel safe. Tweak/modify things that don’t and multiply safety in your healing environment (mentally and physically) 👍 Let me know if you’re interested in some help or have other questions. Dr Charlie PT

[@germanabdurahmanov4881]

Thank you, so basically advice is to do nothing, and if we want to know the magical what to do, we gotta reach out and pay you, good one....

[@drcharliejohnson]

I never said to do nothing. Did I? Also, do you think it's reasonable or even ethical for me to tell you blindly what to do without knowing anything about your medical history or case? When your car breaks down and you need help fixing it. Does your mechanic charge you to fix it? When your air conditioning doesn't work and you need it fixed... must you reach out and pay for it to be fixed? If you want to DIY this... fine- I have hundreds of videos on the topic. If you want to get better faster and save time in figuring out how to resolve your pain naturally- hire an expert (yes, we do charge for our services... as I'm sure you do as well). Best, Dr. Charlie

[@Iamjrodriguez]

So how should I live ? These bodies suck then jaja

[@NkemOnyeka12]

So basically, don’t do anything.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Quite the opposite actually. Stay as active as you can... and tweak/modify (or temporarily avoid) positions of clear compression/tensioning.

[@Searchlightnv]

Way too much talking with no assistance

[@MrEaglecat]

SO SHORT SIDED. 🙄 INCOMPLETE at best. Doesn't provide alternate stretches. --- General idea is good but he has failed to follow thru or rambled on far too long. Doing some appropriate stretches or finding alternate stretches is key, must find a safe way to keep muscles loose and joints mobile so that in healthy positions/posture you are not stretching or compressing the nerve. He practically says stop stretching. 🤦

[@sheanailor704]

What I learned from my surgeon yesterday was that I noticed definite improvement in the sciatic nerve after doing nerve glides. I was told that "less is more" with the nerve glides. However, after a couple weeks, I thought, "Well, if a little is good, more should be better!" WRONG! My surgery was 8 weeks ago. The surgeon explained that nerve glides are meant to be ultra gentle, but there is scar tissue around the nerve at this point. The scar tissue cannot stretch.This scar tissue will begin to break up after 6 months or so. So until, that time, less is more with the nerve glides as the body is not ready yet for more intense exercise. My surgeon doesn't even have me doing PT yet. I am just supposed to doing my daily walking and extremely gentle nerve glides for the sciatic nerve. (I did notice that when I backed off on the more intense nerve glides, my pain got better.) I should note: This is just my interpretation of what I have been through and what my surgeon told me.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Thanks for sharing and sorry to hear. What you share is my experience... nerve glides taken as just the wrong dose or with too much tension here or there result in worsening of symptoms for many. Given how sensitive this movement is (especially for a nerve that's sensitive) makes the risk > reward for most. Not to mention... while walking is not considered a "nerve glide" by traditional standards... it is. So is a squat... so is ANY motion of the body that may move the nerves gently (pretty much any movement of the body). Almost every surgeon I've worked with recommends nerve glides and to "just walk." When i've asked them why... they say, "I don't know... that's just what i've always done." Very scientific. Nerve glides are not required to prevent epidural scarring (scar tissue formation)... there are so many other ways to recover that don't place an already angry nerve at risk for becoming angrier. "Hey... there's a fire over there... just go touch the fire gently... but not too much or you could get burnt." - nerve glides. ME- "Why go near the fire at all?" Let me know if you need help or have more questions... thanks for watching and sharing.

[@plantluvr2917]

thank you..looks like i have been irritating it unknowingly. can you give some exercises that would help instead. maybe you already posted one previously. In the meantime I will try to make the changes to give it a chance to heal...very helpful.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Step one- optimize healing environment. Step 2 get a baseline measurement of motions/activities that are yucky and objectify them (score them)... step 3- movement as medicine. Challenge with providing exercises is that its dependent upon your specific case... what works for some may not work for others. But, depending upon what things make you better or worse- this can inform the direction of motion your body may respond best to. Then, it simply comes down to testing and determining which ONE motion will work best. If you're interested in some help and would like me to review your case- visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then submit details of your case. Okay?

[@thebackseat5643]

Physio gave me some of those. Minor sciatica pain became so severe I could only stand or sit for a couple of minutes and barely walk. Stopping them and using inversion table saved me.

[@lizbollinger6244]

I'm wondering if inversion table is a good approach for ciatica as well. I also have scoliosis which may play a role in my sciatica? I was told inversions table good for scoliosis. IDK .

[@mervynrogers7354]

Thanks for giving me a great excuse for not doing all those useless exercises but I would love to know what I should do.

[@elizabethbryan7601]

So how do we get relief aside from paying you to tell us?

[@didactica9326]

I’m in his physical therapy program and I tell you now you cannot simply tell someone how to “get relief” because it’s so packed full of great information. Which part of it are we supposed to tell you? Just 1%? Dr.Johnson is actually telling you part of it in this video- STOP DOING THINGS THAT HURT

[@drcharliejohnson]

What they said

[@BobRiley]

Do you have a video on the right exercises???

[@debbiethomas5658]

I really appreciate your videos, especially this one. I was doing a lot of those things you described which aggravate it. Lately I've found that if I'm walking with purpose it is better but if I'm shopping slowly and maybe pushing a grocery cart it gets very painful. I'm not sure where that fits in because I don't feel like I'm straining it. But I stopped doing those hip stretching exercises.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Debbie! thanks for watching. Perhaps when using a shopping cart you're tilted a bit more forward leading with your head vs. if walking with purpose you're leading more with hips? May be positional... or may be speed. If walking with purpose makes you feel better... why not take more short purposeful walks as medicine throughout the day when needed? No pressure, but if you're interested in some help- visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then submit your case. I'd be happy to review it to see how I may be able to help you out.

[@betho.3542]

This video is super helpful. So many way I didn't realize I was hurting myself. I haven't been formally diagnosed, but based on studying the issue, I possibly have upper hamstring tendonitis. It fits all the descriptions. Dr. Charlie - any specific exercises for this?? Strong pain up high in the hamstrings (both sides) when I bend and more pain going down back of leg, plus tingling both lower legs.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey! glad it was helpful. First step would be to dial in the source (mind vs. body and then within the body we can sort stuff out via movement via testing). Reason I say this is because this sounds (based off info you provided) highly unlikely to be HHT issues. Generally there are only one sided- pain is localized to upper hamstring and does NOT radiate down leg and does NOT cause tingling. Sounds like it's likely more central (spine/nervous system) than hamstring issue. So, wouldn't want to mislead you here. Would you be open to me reviewing your case to see if/how I can help? If so, just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit your case review. Okay? Thanks for watching and hang in there.. Dr. Charlie PT

[@laurapalka3685]

So does that mean any stretching exercise is bad? Even the forward ones? We should never put any tension on our nerves...walk or lie at a straight angle at all times? When is it okay to bend? I appreciate the points, definitely. But now I'm afraid to stretch at all.

[@drcharliejohnson]

I wouldn’t purposeful directly stretch the area of pain for most folks (obviously some may respond to direct stretching). But that doesn’t mean don’t live life. Highlight the main areas of your treatment approach or life where compression/tension are occurring. And listen to your body. If symptoms are low- no worries that’s fine and likely safe to engage in. If symptoms are moderate- then you need to change that motion/activity temporarily. If symptoms are high- avoidance temporarily is best. So, if sitting or bending is severely painful- may need to avoid for now. But if it’s moderately painful- modify how you’re doing it so that you can find more comfort. No need to live in fear of stretching- but stretching the painful leg/hip generally makes people with sciatica worse. why not stretch other painfree areas of your body. Or pause on stretching at all for the next week?

[@laurapalka3685]

@@drcharliejohnson beautifully answered, thank you! That makes it very clear now I appreciate you taking the time to personally make this clear to me. ☺️

[@sophiacerchia4903]

Wow this is crazy I’ve been doing massage, and decompression is that okay? What about an inversion table? Some say yes and some say no. This is my second bout with this. Had surgery almost 2 years ago and it came back in my L4 and 5 I’m a makeup artist so the side to side leaning on my hip is what I do! Ugh do you know what exercises to do?

[@sezakow1]

Summary of what not to do: Back bend, nerve glides, foam rolling, crossing your legs, sleeping on your side with your legs bent, shifting your weight to one leg while standing, poking/pressing on the irritated area, sitting with your knees to your chest, forcing yourself to sit up tall

[@jeanifferram3965]

Great explanation the dos and don't .I love to cross my leg's when sitting or sleeping. So i won't do it again I have sciatica for 5 week's now .I feel crippled when i sit on my sofa Time for me to get up it really really pains me ..Am 73 years of age can i get some help please 🙏🏼 😢 😭

[@querubinzinha]

I found this extremely helpful! The last pose I have been doing my whole life and didn’t realize that it was bad for me.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@annamay3083]

My PT had me doing those exercises and believe me the pain was so so horrible afterwards for wk stopped going . It's been tough getting pain in lower back to lessen up

[@77sabrina77]

I have cervical stenosis, thoracic outlet syndrome, sciatica, and lower lumbar issues... I feel like whenever I try to stretch one area. I'm straining another any tips for someone in my position

[@marc-andred.galarneau2650]

Tennis ball roll => i get bad flare next day.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Very common- hurts so good in the moment- then flare up!

[@cornieschuster]

Charlie what about people who lift weights and do Zumba etc? I want to continue to do the things that make me happy, strong etc and so many movements that are considered proper form for increasing leg strength... those are going to be deep squats, leg press etc and will be acute trunk angles... and in Zumba the hips are moving side to side and purposely letting the other hip drop and one jutting out.. also in strengthening the glute medius there see may exercises where you drop that hip and then push into the opposite side to work that muscle and grow it. I don't have sciatica pain but at times my pirifornis gets cranky. My issue is the SI joint from all of your diagnostic tools and also from the one PT that I used to work with that I trusted.

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey! thanks for watching. If motions that place you in an acute hip trunk angle do not cause symptoms then no need to avoid. These recommendations are individual/user dependent. If yucky, then may need to modify depth of squat or way of performing these motions as to not aggravate issue. All about testing to find what is safe vs. what is not... and then having a framework for determining what is an acceptable level of symptoms vs. those that should be avoided. Again, these recommendations should be individualized given your own pain experience. No pressure, but if you're interested in some help I'd be happy to review your case personally. If you'd like- just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit details of your specific case. Dr. Charlie

[@robb4964]

Don't bend backwards? Jesus... there is ZERO consistency in your profession. It literally leaves me personally having ZERO confidence in this profession. Nobody knows anything. It's insane What if bending forward is excruciating? What, then? A bunch of other people in your profession says to bend back and not forward. This is so stressful.

[@rachnagaharwar6364]

Excellent explanation of sciatica compression.

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@rachnagaharwar6364 thanks for watching!

[@annamay3083]

Thank you Charlie another excellent video. Had MRI yesterday plus 3 xrays couple wks ago .next another ultra sound of the aorta in abdomen. Then cardiology Dr. So things aren't looking good but 4yrs of this crap I try to be positive . Thank you Charlie you have a gift helping others

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Anna- sorry to hear, if I may ask, what's with all the testing? Are they concerned about something cardiovascular wise?

[@annamay3083]

@@drcharliejohnson Dr. Charlie I would love to talk to you is their any way I could contact you ? I have no internet .

[@nadiaamrani7838]

Good video Charlie! Im having trouble sleeping (ache/weird sensations in both legs right side more than left) because I'm a side sleeper and I tend to bring my knees up at 90 degrees. Ive tried to sleep on my back but I don't feel comfortable. Any idea on how to get more comfortable at night? Thanks

[@drcharliejohnson]

May need to do a video on this... so many options and things to test. Have you manipulated the variable of surface (hard vs. soft surface)? Also... sleeping with something in front of you which blocks you from bringing your knees to chest may be useful. Consider a sleeping back with some pillows as your abdomen... may act as a "block" to 90 deg knee flexion. If this doesn't work... then need to look at other positions, nighttime routine (mental and physical state) etc. If you're interested in me reviewing your case - visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply and I'll see how I may be able to best help. Thanks for watching!

[@seinfeldcostanza9433]

For chronic back pain, sciatica and muscle tightness, search for anyone who has a very good review doing myofascial release. My MRI showed pinched nerve, degenerative bone disease etc etc but myofascial release was the only thing that took the pain away. Not even epidural pain injections.

[@juliebraeger7673]

Exactly! After my first PT appt. The next day I had such HORRIBLE Sciatic Pain! I never went back.

[@juliandee8815]

I spinal forminal Stenosis what should I do?

[@drcharliejohnson]

Don’t treat the diagnosis- treat your pain experience (brain/body). In other words- what motions/activities make you feel better or worse? Once we know this, then we can aim to tweak/modify (temporarily) the activities that are yucky and begin testing exercise to improve the motions that hurt. We also need to consider how certain beliefs, fears, and stressors are playing into the pain you’re experiencing. This is all related to how the central nervous system (brain) is involved in producing symptoms. Let me know if you’re interested in some help 👍

[@judifisher3087]

Massage is good then for muscles. But not sciatic nerves?

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Judi! Thanks for watching. Massage is simply an input to the system. It’s neutral. It’s not good or bad for muscles- it just is until proven otherwise. Massage is a way to move your body. Nerves that are massaged too aggressively almost always respond with increase in symptoms. Obviously depends on how deep or aggressive the massage is. Nowadays people think “hurt so good” massage and massage gun treatment is better- but for painful nerves and muscles it generally results in increase pain. Why make something hurt so good if the goal is to be good and not hurt?

[@judifisher3087]

@@drcharliejohnson 💯 👍! I've found it helpful for relaxing but you're right about tense muscles....massage sometimes increases the pain... sometimes it improves it..

[@Anna-t3v4j]

Hi Charlie well all the testing is almost done .Here is the update. After 2 MRI I have a hip larval tear. They want to do a hip arthroscopy. I need to find out what that is . Heart murmur more tests. Abdominal aortic aneurysm. It's small so they will be watching it. Gosh I just went to Dr for my pain tingling butt just want to walk sleep live my life

[@larkhughes9740]

Wow! This was very helpful. I've been doing it all wrong! Thank you doc.❤

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Lark! No worries... make some adjustments and change course!

[@mrsm4400]

Very interesting and seems logical. Can you also treat butt pain due to diseases like avn or autoimmune conditions such as arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis?

[@drcharliejohnson]

We have treated systemic issues using mind + movement as medicine- including AS, RA, hEDS, even symptoms due to Lymes Disease. That being, it's case dependent and I'd need some more details of the specific case. AVN depending on how advanced it is and the clinical signs associated with it- may be best treated with joint replacement. Again, would need some specific case details to confirm if that would even make sense or if it could be resolved naturally.

[@mrsm4400]

@@drcharliejohnson Thank you so much for your reply. You are doing amazing work 👍.

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@mrsm4400 thanks! appreciate you watching!

[@SherryLang-b9e]

What's the correct way to sit with butt pain.

[@wallywalkabout]

Do it in full view doctor, show down the kneww or leg

[@liviniasilva9762]

This makes total sense. I’m an OT with new dx of L4/L5 11 mm disc herniation. Going to start PT Friday which is covered by insurance. I’m a little nervous because I want someone who is specialized. I do know a specialized PT but it’s out of pocket. I’m afraid to go in and it making it worse doing the wrong things. What’s your advice? I’m a mom of three also so I don’t have time to have a lapse in care lol

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey! thanks for watching. You're in a tough spot. This will likely take time + the right approach to resolve (not a fast fix). If possible- I would go the specialist route from the start as the wrong approach could make this worse and prolong the healing process. No pressure, but let me know if you're interested in some help- I'd be happy to review your case and see how I may be able to help you. Just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat, then follow instructions to submit a formal case review.

[@maryduke5864]

Thank you so much! You have helped so much!

[@drcharliejohnson]

You're welcome Mary! Thanks for watching and let me know if you get stuck or need help. Enjoy your weekend. Dr. Charlie

[@jamesrigby2271]

Would it be reasonable to conclude that passive hanging and/or doing pull ups would tension the sciatic nerve?

[@drcharliejohnson]

Yes! You got it James. There could be ways to lessen the tension at certain points throughout the system while hanging/doing pullups... passively bending knee(s) for example... but that's a challenge. Inversion tables with a straight leg pull (no knee bend) provide a "traction" to the nervous system which often makes things worse if nerve sensitivity is involved. Hope this make sense! Let me know if you're interested in some help. Thanks for watching. Dr. Charlie

[@jaycie2213]

In my case, the figure 4 stretch was what relieved my sciatic pain.

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@jaycie2213 for some it will- for most it won’t. Glad it helped you!

[@yunesa]

I am glad to have stumbled upon this channel after watching Dr. Doobie’s video. Recently diagnosed with DDD. After watching this video, I realized my work and lifestyle habits that I have been doing has greatly contributed to the symptoms and sensation. Instead of bending backwards, I will bend forward. I have always had the figure 4 stretch on my treatment protocol from the Physical Therapist but will try not doing that and will see what will happen. Lifestyle change including crossing legs and instead putting a pillow in between will be my goal to keep me in check, sleeping on the sides and instead place pillow in between knees and ankles; standing on one leg instead of the neutral position of open broad stance, poking in the angry bear, the acute hip trunk angle, sitting up tall or slouch but instead of a relaxed back maybe put a support behind my back instead. Thank you for sharing your knowledge to all of us Dr. Charlie.

[@በትእግስትያልፋል]

my scitaca is 7 month now can it be cure

[@drcharliejohnson]

Of course it can. Given the right environment- mentally and physically- the body is designed to heal!

[@judecullen-moore6726]

Hi there, very useful thank you. I have sciatica caused by bulging L4&5. What's your opinion on bridge pose or even just doing butt clenching? I've found it helps but am now wondering if I'm compressing the nerve. Thank you!

[@fayechamp4156]

True story I had sciatica pain nonstop in my back Doctor recommended physical therapy I kid you not I was in worse shape after that start to have numbness down my leg and feet and tingling sensation on going I told my doctor I just could have had a V-8 and he laughed uncontrollable.

[@Susie462]

Omg, luckily due to terrible hip pain, I can’t cross my legs or do the figure four any more. But, my physio gave me a list of exercises which included the figure four. I sleep with a pillow between my knees.

[@debbiedigger]

OK I like all of that information and you told me not to do some things that I have seen on other videos telling you to do to help your sciatica. I just need to know if somethings that will work will take away the pain exercises or something to do to go along with the things not to do. HELP… I’m miserable 😩

[@kathygoding5245]

Well I must be doing it all wrong so I will keep your info in mind because it does make sense. My favorite exercise that does give me relief is my glute squeezes cause I can do it sitting, standing or lying dow

[@Staygoldponyboy44]

Thank you for this video! Is using ice limiting blood circulation? Is he better? Thank you!

[@josephwillis665]

I’ve been suffering now for four months waiting to go to pain management probably to get injections so you showed us a lot of things not to do , so what should we be doing?

[@milsom88ify]

Hamstring stretches helped me, as they are attached to the pelvic, they pull your hips all over if to tight, so then pulling into nerves and whatknott

[@coypu2005]

Excellent!!! This helped greatly!! My chiropractor says the exact same things! ❤

[@mconsulting7394]

I'm totally confused, you're talking do not do exersices those are given to me by a doctor. It's strange.

[@gregoryking9348]

And just like that I learn that the routines I was taught in physical therapy over a 25 year, 4 back surgery period isn't what's best for me. Stretching seldom used, or underused nerves, tendons, and muscles is in my opinion (at my age (66) and back history) isn't a bad thing and if not done, actually promotes sciatica and injury just doing mundane routine things. It doesn't happen often but the algorhythm gawds actually brought me something I can use. Now you have me curious Doc if you have more content that addresses sciatica pain relief routines that are effective and utilize anti compression aspects. For that I'm subscribing. 👍

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hey Greg! Thanks for the sub and for checking out my content! I’ll be posting a video tomorrow which should be valuable for you- stay tuned! Essentially it comes down to doing detective work and testing to find what’s keeping you from healing and what inputs will be needed to heal. If you’re interested in me reviewing your case to see if/how I can help… just visit www.drcharliejohnsonpt.com/apply - select a time to chat with us, then follow instructions to submit details of your case! Sound good? Thanks Greg! Dr Charlie PT

[@alanfrancis9225]

I have had a flare up of this nerve in my butt. Really good advice.

[@maryjobetson1913]

What about in the car positioning in a car when you’re driving

[@judecullen-moore6726]

Meant to add that I've been focusing on the butt rather than the glutes.

[@jeffwilliams7054]

What is your opinion on Ibuprofen use twice a week or once a week?

[@innertube47]

Blimey. Slouching is good and all the other things I do are bad!

[@drcharliejohnson]

life = learning. Keep collecting data and challenging your current approach. Let me know if you're interested in some help or have questions!

[@innertube47]

@@drcharliejohnson thanks charlie! My issues are too complicated to deal with remotely (i’m in the UK), as you commented though I pay an osteopath £40 a time to “knead” my butt every month and I do quite a few of the things you frown on

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@innertube47 your welcome! This may sound weird... but what if for a moment you consider that your problem is not "complicated" and could easily be resolved remotely? I used to treat people in person (taught manual therapy to PT's, DO's, and chiros) and found it much more effective to teach people how to heal themselves vs. fix them. Many people get stuck within their own belief system (usually self-limiting) which keeps them trapped. If in person hands on treatment has not worked... whats the opposite... remote, hands off treatment that works! Something to consider- YOU can do this! thanks again for your insights. Let me know if you'd like some help!

[@innertube47]

@@drcharliejohnson yes, that’s an interesting idea thing is my situation would take a lot of explaining - that’s if you need to know about old injuries, but maybe your new paradigm starts from scratch from now (as it were), so yes, where do we go from here? I need another way of seeing things as this has blighted my life for years! It is late here now so will continue tomorrow, thanks, John

[@kristiblackard5666]

What about inversion table? Is that a no-no?

[@LoveLove-lm2wz]

So, what is conducive to healing?

[@Mikemeshell63]

Your right in my case,thanks.

[@troyewing3188]

So what should I do to make it feel better

[@claudiashepherd8994]

Exactly he got on my nerves

[@bucksdiaryfan]

I’ve never gotten good results from flossing the sciatic nerves. It just seems to get the nerve barking. Since I have arthritic stenosis I imagine I’m stretching a cord with someone standing on the middle of the cord - not flossing it, but tugging on a cord that has no slack

[@drcharliejohnson]

👍 So many creative (and totally painfree) ways to move a sensitive nerve!

[@judifisher3087]

Makes perfect sense

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@judifisher3087 thanks for watching 👍

[@angelacstewart2699]

I need to know what are the good exercises to released the pain please

[@drcharliejohnson]

It all depends on the specific person... be sure check the end screen of this video- where I link to another video that discusses exercise.

[@PiyankaChahal]

Very elaborated explanation. Thank you. I am suffering for L5-S1 disc bulge since last 4 months. I tried dry needling, acupressure, oral steroids and inflammatory drugs, physical exercises, nothing worked. I ended up taking epidural steriod injection too but didn't work. I am trying my best to avoid surgery. I saw couple of videos online in last 2-3 days to self home recovery from sciatica pain but it got worse. The wrong thing I kept on doing was stretching, the leaning forward, crossing legs and to be honest almost all the things you mentioned in the video. After watching this, I have stopped doing it. How long does it take for noticing the recovery/reduction in pain since we stop doing what we are not meant to do. I am unable to walk even 10 steps, unable to sit, I can't even lay down straight or on my right side. I can only sleep on my left side. Please help.

[@ColdSoba-rx8bk]

Hi. Fellow patient of L4-L5 pain here. I’ll share what I’ve been doing to recover from this, but disclaimer: my English is not so good (sorry!). During 3 months, I have had 2 very painful nerve pain that made me unable to move, the latest spasm was extremely painful. After some time switching doctors, my last doctor told me, “hey, no need for surgery. I believe you can still recover without it. Just finish your medicines, and after the pain recedes, try to do core exercises!” At that time, I was in wheelchair. I could walk, but very wonky & sore. Since my spine doctor didn’t say anything else, I took the initiative to see medical rehab doctor, who suggested me to do shockwave therapy (ESWT). During the last 2-3 months, I already did 10 sessions of them. My thought on ESWT: this does not “cure” our disc bulge. BUT this has helped me so much in easing muscle tension (which made me unable to walk & move freely). Along with ESWT, I begun to incorporate walking as my exercise. And only walking, to gain flexibility of my body. Then when I felt my back feels stronger, I slowly incorporate core exercise like short planking and crunches. I tried acupuncture & regular physiotherapy, unfortunately they didn’t work very well for me. With the former gave me new pain on L4-L5. Hope you get well soon 🙏🏽

[@ColdSoba-rx8bk]

Oh, sorry one more thing. If you are currently very much in pain, have you tried switching doctor? For second opinion and also to ask for more medicines? I happened to need 2 batches of med prescription-only after these I could take myself to various therapy & do light exercise.

[@OfferoC]

Do you not recommend dry needling?

[@mkkrupp2462]

He said no.

[@Deborah986]

Ok now we know what NOT around so but I kept waiting to see the exercises we SHOULD be doing - never came

[@drcharliejohnson]

Are you suggesting that you don’t see value in knowing what not to do?

[@Deborah986]

@@drcharliejohnson yes- but that’s only half of the equation

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@Deborah986 solve the first half first and see where it takes you. The second half of the equation won’t matter at all if the first half isn’t done properly 👍

[@Deborah986]

@@drcharliejohnson showing what are the right exercises automatically eliminates what not to do

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@Deborah986 no it doesn't. Thats like saying... "I'm trying to lose weight...show me the right exercises to lose weight and that will automatically eliminate my bad diet." We all know "you can't out exercise a bad diet." You can't out exercise a yucky healing environment (wrong exercises, habits, routines, beliefs, stressors, things you don't know you don't know). Healing goes far beyond the "right" exercises... not to mention they are highly specific to your pain... what works for you may not work for someone else (and visa versa). Not to mention, if showing the right exercises automatically eliminates what not to do... then showing what not to do should automatically highlight what TO do.

[@ghostface_3]

@drchaliejohnson is it back if I wear a back brace it helps me work with it on

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@ghostface_3 if wearing a brace makes you feel better/more safe I have no issue with it 👍