What is Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve roots are inflamed, irritated, stretched or pinched. inflammation of this nerve can cause extreme pain.
The pain can effect any or all of the regions that the sciatic nerve travels so your lower back, hips, legs, and/or feet can be effected. the pain is different depending on where the nerve irritation occurs. one or more of the following sensations may occur:
- pain in the buttocks and/or leg that is worse when sitting;
- burning or tingling down the leg;
- weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg;
- a constant pain in the buttocks;
- a shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up.
Sciatica is a common symptom of spinal dysfunction. It can be very painful and left untreated sciatica may get worse.
How do you get Sciatica?
Sciatica is commonly associated with a herniated or bulging disc. Your spinal discs provide a cushion between each of your vertebrae. if this cushion “bulges” it may come in contact with your sciatic nerve and cause nerve irritation.
If you’ve suffered an accident, the reason for your sciatica may be obvious, however, it can also result from a series of small “injuries” or cumulative damage. poor posture, excessive weight, lack of muscle tone or other physical,, chemical or emotional stresses can all lead to an unhealthy spine and sciatica.
Simple movements such as lifting or bending may trigger a sciatic episode but generally there are underlying problems if sciatica is triggered easily.
How Can Chiropractic Help?
Proper treatment of any condition, involves treating the cause and not just the symptoms. Chiropractors are uniquely trained to diagnose and treat your sciatica.
They will review your complete health history and perform a thorough physical examination to pin-point any physical problems. Your care may include adjustments, exercises and corrections to your posture, behaviour and lifestyle. Our goal is to correct or improve spinal alignment and mobility to allow your body to heal and relieve nerve irritation.
Many patients are prescribed bed rest or pain killers for sciatica. prolonged bed rest has been found to be ineffective and may actually aggravate your condition. pain killers may provide relief from your pain but does not deal with the cause of the problem. Chiropractic care offers safe, effective treatment for Sciatica without the use of drugs or surgery.
The Sciatic Nerve
A sciatic nerve is made up of five nerve roots that exit from your lower back, join in your pelvis and then continue to your thigh, knee, ankle and finally your foot. Your two sciatic nerves (running the length of each leg) are the longest and largest nerves in your body.
