Manual Therapy Todor

24/06/2026

09/01/2025

Intercostal Nerve Entrapment – how to recognise the problem and find a solution

If you are experiencing back pain that is clearly located on the left or right side, the cause may be irritation or entrapment of an intercostal nerve. This is a relatively common condition that can lead to significant discomfort.

It is important to understand that:
Between the ribs there are 12 pairs of intercostal nerves, which originate from the spinal column. Any of these nerves can become irritated or compressed, resulting in pain or discomfort along the rib area.

Intercostal nerve irritation does not usually show clearly on X-rays, and it can be difficult to identify even with MRI scans, as these tests mainly show structural changes rather than functional nerve irritation.

Painkillers, heat therapy, injections, massage, or acupuncture may sometimes provide temporary symptom relief, but they do not address the underlying mechanical irritation affecting the nerve.

Long-term improvement typically requires reducing the mechanical tension and restoring normal movement in the affected area.

Manual therapy techniques can be used to assess restricted areas in the spine and rib joints, helping to improve mobility and reduce nerve irritation.

If you suffer from persistent back pain that does not improve over time, it is important to seek a proper clinical assessment from a qualified manual therapy practitioner, in order to identify the functional cause and choose the appropriate approach.

30/10/2024

Sciatic Nerve Compression (Sciatica)

Sciatic nerve compression is a condition that causes pain, tingling, and weakness that can radiate along the entire leg. The pressure on the sciatic nerve usually develops in the lower back or pelvic area and is often caused by surrounding tissues such as muscles, joints, or ligaments. Because the sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body, when it becomes compressed the symptoms can be particularly intense and limiting for movement.

Conventional approaches often start with painkillers, topical creams, or injections to reduce pain and inflammation. These methods mainly address the symptoms and may provide temporary relief, but they do not resolve the underlying cause of the problem — the mechanical pressure on the nerve.

For longer-term improvement, restoring normal movement and reducing mechanical irritation around the nerve is essential. Manual therapy techniques can be used to help release tight muscles and improve joint mobility in the affected area, which may reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve and support natural recovery.