Fix Your Sciatica Podcast

Dr. Ashley Mak, PT, DPT, CSCS
  • 4.8 (18)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS

How to manage your sciatica and low back pain without the use of medication or surgery.

  1. 3D AGO

    The Biology of Sciatica Pain

    The first episode of the year brings a shift in looking at sciatica pain. Yes, there are many ways that sciatica pain can occur: herniated discs, stenosis, arthritis, deep gluteal syndrome, piriformis syndrome. But what about the biology of pain itself? Today we take a deep dive to learn more about how pain works and the types of pain that can be associated with sciatica. We also go through specific actionable steps to help get to the root cause of your sciatica pain. Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707 Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    11 min

  2. 12/29/2025

    Dead Space and Sciatica Pain

    In this solo session, Dr. Ashley Mak discusses how to manage sciatica flare-ups during the holiday season when many health services are unavailable. He emphasizes the importance of remaining calm, using breathing techniques, and approaching pain with curiosity. Dr. Mak provides practical tips for self-care, including asking for help, keeping a pain journal, and recognizing when to seek medical attention. He reassures listeners that flare-ups are temporary and encourages a positive mindset for recovery as the new year begins. Happy New Year! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    8 min

  3. 12/22/2025

    Burnout and Sciata Pain

    Dr. Van Praag is an anesthesiologist and coach to burnt out physician moms. In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Mak and Dr. Cindy Van Praag delve into the complexities of burnout, particularly among physician moms. They explore the chronic nature of burnout, its physical manifestations, and the importance of self-care and mindfulness. The discussion emphasizes the need for setting boundaries, prioritizing health, and utilizing data-driven insights to manage stress. Dr. Van Praag shares her experiences as a physician coach, helping others navigate the challenges of balancing work and family life while maintaining well-being. You can reach out to Dr. Van Pragg here: https://inspiredmommds.com/ Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707 Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    38 min

  4. 12/15/2025

    Gut Brain Axis and Sciatica

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Mak and Dr. Jen Clemons explore the intricate relationship between the gut and brain, emphasizing the gut-brain axis and its impact on pain and overall health. They discuss the importance of the microbiome, neurotransmitters, and inflammation in chronic pain conditions. Dr. Clemons shares insights on dietary principles and supplements that can support gut health, highlighting the need for individualized care and the significance of understanding one's body. The discussion also touches on the role of naturopathy and acupuncture in promoting holistic health. Link for Dr. Clemons: https://www.drjenclemons.com/ Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707 Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    48 min

  5. 12/08/2025

    Acupuncture for Sciatica Pain V3

    Today Dr. Ashley interviews Dr. Deborah Ma, PhD, L.Ac, acupuncturist and owner of Puzzlesf.com a acupuncture clinic out in in the Mission District of San Francisco. We talk about how Chinese Meridians, reorienting the chi flow, and how a new technique called "cheek acupuncture" can be beneficial for those experiencing pain. We discuss the importance of understanding where the pain is coming from and that most of the time, the pain we feel is not the same location as the cause. Acupuncture is a great tool in recovery. You can reach Dr. Ma at her website puzzlesf.com Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707 Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    35 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    Sciatica pain and the feet

    In this episode, Dr. Ashley explores the intricate relationship between foot health and sciatica, emphasizing how issues in the feet can lead to altered mechanics of the body. This episode covers foot anatomy, walking mechanics, and the importance of foot arches in maintaining proper posture. Dr. Ashley provides actionable steps for listeners to improve their foot health and alleviate pain, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body and the role of physical therapy in managing pain. Flat foot podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/functional-rehab/id1726101419?i=1000651880861 Cure for flat feet youtube video: https://youtu.be/g4UQe4meD6Y Decreased Subtalar Pronation in Sciatica Patients (Compensation Mechanism): Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40272494/ Foot Overpronation Linked to Low Back Pain: Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8312604/ Orthotics Not Supported for Primary Prevention of Low Back Pain: Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19359999/ Website: ifixyoursciatica.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDSyjTFrrE45LNbmXNad2dQ/featured Booking Link: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifixyoursciatica-com/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min

  7. 11/24/2025

    Season Preview!

    Dr. Ashley introduces the new season of the podcast, focusing on the underlying causes of chronic pain. The season will explore biomechanics, gut health, neuroplasticity, and the endocannabinoid system, featuring expert guests. Interested in an episode that we haven't coverd yet? Email us at info@ifixyoursciatica.com. Happy Thanksgiving! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    4 min

  8. 09/16/2025

    Inflammation and Sciatica Pain

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Mak discusses the often misunderstood role of inflammation in the healing process, particularly in relation to sciatica pain. He explains the three main phases of tissue healing—acute inflammatory, proliferation, and maturation—and emphasizes that inflammation is a necessary part of recovery. The discussion also covers the causes of sciatica pain, the differences between acute injuries and chronic conditions, and the importance of managing inflammation through movement, nutrition, and sleep. Disc Healing/Resorption: Title: The Spontaneous Regression of a Herniated Lumbar Disc: A Review of the Literature and a Case ReportJournal: Pain PhysicianLink: https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/2017/March/Vol20-S1/PPJ_20-S1_S139.pdfMcKenzie Method and Directional Preference for Disc Pain: Title: Directional preference in the management of low back pain: a systematic reviewJournal: SpineLink: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17694119Medical Imaging Not Correlating with Pain: Title: Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populationsJournal: American Journal of NeuroradiologyLink: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25433605Ice and Modern Healing Principles: Title: Revisiting the PRICE and RICE acronyms for soft tissue injury management: a systematic reviewJournal: Sports MedicineLink: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29243037Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707 Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    11 min
See All (195)

4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

How to manage your sciatica and low back pain without the use of medication or surgery.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Ashley Mak, PT, DPT, CSCS
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    195
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Fix Your Sciatica Podcast

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