Sciatica is a type of nerve pain we frequently treat at Riverwalk Family Chiropractic. It's also a problem that can become chronic or disabling if the underlying cause isn't treated the right way. At The Spine Doc in Birmingham, AL, we have treated sciatica for many years. Following are the answers to several questions we frequently receive regarding sciatica.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica typically develops from a back injury and wear and tear from everyday activities that put pressure on one or both of the sciatic nerves. The nerves extend from a nerve root and run down the legs through the hips and buttocks. Common causes of nerve compression include poor posture, obesity, pregnancy, or repetitive use of the lower spine. Overuse from aging also causes degenerative disc diseases (DDDs) that lead to lumbar nerve pain. They include spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and herniated disc. Muscle spasms in the back or buttocks and spondylolisthesis are other common causes.
Sciatic Nerve Pain Symptoms
Pressure from a herniated disc may irritate or inflame the nerve and lead to pain of different intensities. Some patients complain of feeling a sharp searing or burning pain in the lower back. The pain may be unbearable, especially when doing activities that put pressure on the lower spine. For example, bending or twisting. Other symptoms include:
- Pain radiates along the sciatic nerve to the hip, buttock, thigh, leg, or foot
- Heaviness, weakness, or loss of sensation in the leg
- Prolong standing or sitting may trigger the pain
- Symptoms may persist even during periods of rest
- Numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation down the leg
Treat Sciatica with Chiropractic Care in Wenatchee, WA
Chiropractic care is a proven non-surgical way that gets rid of sciatic nerve pain. Dr. Koch and Dr. Goff know this very well, as both have treated so many patients who came in looking for a treatment that works. Before tailoring a treatment plan, our chiropractors will do a physical exam and x-ray the spine to pinpoint the underlying condition causing the symptoms.
Once you have been diagnosed with sciatica, we may decide to treat you using spinal adjustments and natural therapies. Adjustments are performed by manipulating the musculoskeletal structures and putting them into their proper places. At the same time, spinal adjustments relieve sciatic nerve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore nervous system functions.
Adjustments are usually combined with massage therapy and corrective exercises. Massage therapy is good for improving blood circulation and relieving muscle aches and pain. Meanwhile, corrective exercises help to strengthen the back and prevent recurring injuries.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Chiropractor for Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment in Birmingham, AL
Call The Spine Doc today at (205) 951-3330 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our chiropractor.
