The doctor of the future won’t prescribe medications, this doctor will instead awake the patient’s interest in taking care of his/her diet and in the cause and prevention of diseases. – By Thomas Edison
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is an irritation of the sciatic nerve, starting at the lower spine, through the buttock to the leg and foot. When the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed or irritated, it can cause numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the buttock area and into the leg.
What is the cause of Sciatica?
Inflamed Articulation
If one of the bones (vertebrae) in the spine does not move properly, or if it is in the wrong place, the articulation can become inflamed, irritating the sciatic nerve.
Bulging Disc
When one of the pads (discs) between the vertebrae is bulged, it can irritate the sciatic nerve.
Muscle Spasms
If one or more of the muscles of the lower back becomes inflamed or contracts (spasm), it can irritate the sciatic nerve.
Can chiropractic care help me?
Your chiropractor will check your overall health, focusing not only on your sciatica, but also on your lifestyle. Focusing on your overall health will help in providing the best treatment for your condition.
Background
You and your chiropractor will discuss your symptoms, previous injuries, medical history and lifestyle, including physical activity related to your work and leisure time.
Physical Exam
Physical, orthopedic and neurological tests can indicate your spine’s vertebra, disc and muscle condition. Your chiropractor will softly touch and move your spine checking for muscle spasms and pain, and vertebra movements.
Tests
X-Rays can be taken to show any vertebral condition. If necessary, other imaging tests can be performed, such as an MRI showing detailed disc, nerve and other soft tissue images.
Diagnosis
Based on your exam and other test results, your chiropractor will be able to recommend a treatment plan to alleviate the irritation that is causing pain and other symptoms. If necessary, your chiropractor will consult or send you to see other specialists.
How does a chiropractor treat sciatica?
A chiropractor is qualified to restore the health of your spine and sciatic nerve. Special techniques or adjustments can alleviate the irritation that is causing low back, buttock or leg pain.
Spine Adjustments
Treatment depends on the cause of sciatica. A chiropractor softly presses your spine during an adjustment to alleviate irritated nerves and to increase their movement.
Other Treatments
Your chiropractor can recommend other types of treatment to alleviate irritated nerves. These may include electrical nerve stimulation, heat and cold packs, massage, traction or ultrasound waves.
How can I keep my back in good condition?
Maintain your spine straight and well-supported at any position. Follow your chiropractor’s recommended exercise program.
Spine Controls
Just as you need regular dental check-ups, you also need regular spinal check-ups. Even though you might not show any symptoms, chiropractic care is one of the best ways to control and avoid spinal problems and to keep a healthy life.
